My life was perfect. I had a happy childhood, a lovely brother and wonderful parents and the plans of any conscientious young woman. No cares or worries...Little did I know how my life would change. Little did I know of disability, illness and pain. Little did I know of battles in life or totally appreciate what truly matters in life.

Hannah studied at Sir William Perkins's School from 2004 until 2006 when she was hospitalised following an accident playing netball on a school trip. Since then she has spent many years in a variety of hospitals and had to learn to adapt to a different life. She currently features on the National Portrait Gallery website and is the cover girl on the front of the motability WAV brochure. She aspires to meet the odds and walk again, become more independent and to make a positive influence on disabled people’s lives.

This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at http://ted.com/tedx