Danny’s story

Danny is a young person who attends the vocational social care course at the Moss Side Learning Hub, having previously attended Ardwick. He has Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) including a range of physical disabilities. Danny is a kind, caring, and hardworking individual who consistently supports others whenever needed. Despite experiencing significant medical and personal challenges throughout his life, he has demonstrated exceptional resilience. With the support of MYL, Danny is now focused on pursuing his goals and working towards achieving his long-term aspirations.

Danny was born prematurely at 29 weeks and was critically unwell at birth, with doctors initially giving him only four days to live. He was born with multiple complex medical conditions, including McM Syndrome, lung disease, asthma, cleft lip and palate, and hearing impairment. He required oxygen when discharged from hospital and ongoing support from an outreach medical team.

At two years old, Danny was diagnosed with cerebral palsy and began receiving intensive physiotherapy and play therapy. He was non-verbal until around three to four years old and required speech and language therapy. He also experienced hydrocephalus, which caused significant distress and led to multiple brain surgeries, beginning at the age of five. Between the ages of five and six, he underwent repeated ICP monitoring and brain operations, eventually having eight ICP procedures in total.

Throughout childhood, Danny experienced joint dislocations due to hypermobility, Raynaud’s disease, and epilepsy (diagnosed at age eight). He required regular physiotherapy, hydrotherapy, leg splints, a specially funded Lycra suit for postural support, and frequent hospital appointments. He developed a fear of needles due to the volume of medical interventions he endured.

At nine years old, Danny underwent a major cleft operation involving bone grafting from his hip. By age ten, he was issued an electric wheelchair, which required specialist training. His family home was adapted to meet his physical needs, including the installation of a ramp and a wet-room shower.

Transitioning into secondary education was particularly challenging, as several schools were unwilling to meet his needs. Eventually, a suitable placement was found, though this period involved further medical monitoring and ongoing medication for migraines. Over time, he was able to stop using his wheelchair, increasing his independence. His recovery from surgeries became increasingly difficult over time, with his most recent operation taking place shortly before joining MYL.

Danny completed a “Make-A-Wish” experience at age twelve, meeting WWE wrestlers, which was a significant positive milestone. He later attended college, studying Drama and Maths. Due to the Covid-19 pandemic and health-related challenges, he left college and subsequently joined MYL. In relation to mental health, Danny experienced a period of severe emotional distress following an abusive relationship. During this time, he struggled with eating and sleeping and made two suicide attempts. This was a particularly vulnerable period in his life.

Danny has consistently demonstrated a strong passion for drama and performance. He participated in numerous shows with a drama group and regularly performed singing at churches. He later auditioned for Peaky Blinders; although successful at audition, he was unable to progress due to insurance limitations related to his health needs.

MYL provided consistent emotional support, encouragement, and guidance to help rebuild Danny’s confidence and self-esteem as a student at the Ardwick Learning Hub. Staff supported him during periods of poor mental health, motivating him to re-engage with the centre and offering a stable, supportive environment. MYL helped Danny refocus on his strengths and supported him in identifying positive pathways forward. Danny has now begun a Level 2 qualification in Health and Social Care at the Moss Side Learning Hub.

As a result of MYL’s support, Danny reports a significant improvement in his confidence, wellbeing, and outlook on life. He now recognises his own potential and believes in his ability to achieve his goals. Danny seized the initiative to apply for a part time Play and Youth Worker role at MYL, in his local community in North Manchester. He was successful in a competitive interview and MYL supported Danny with a full induction and training. He finds his role makes him feel valued, included, and empowered. He describes this period as the happiest he has felt in years and credits MYL with giving him purpose and motivation.

Danny has expressed a strong desire to give back to the community as a way of thanking those who supported him throughout his life. He is motivated to help disadvantaged individuals and aims to use his experiences to positively impact others.