#DAW24 - Your Story - Charlie Wood

Where does your dyslexia story begin? 

School was hard, constantly not quite getting it and being told I was stupid, being bottom of every class but being very articulate. I managed to get to university and at the age of 19 years old my lecturer said that I was dyslexic and that I could get tested through the psychology department. I agreed and found out that I had dyslexia and the reading age of an 11-year-old. I felt relieved but also completely lost on how I would get through my university course, which was all I wanted to do. 

Has there been an unexpected twist or turn in your story? 

Getting a job that didn't rely fully on my need to write was a complete eye-opener for me. I fit in and was passionate about the work. Building networks in my organisation and explaining things using simple language were my absolute strengths, this was something others struggled with. I was good at something at last! I look back now and think that if only work-based qualifications were available back then it would have transformed my life and my confidence. 

What are your dyslexia strengths? 

I am good at seeing strategic links, thinking, and doing things fast. I see connections that others don’t see and I can juggle multiple things at once.

What are your key dyslexia struggles? 

I struggle with remembering facts and I am rubbish at job and media interviews. I don’t always understand the meaning of words and how to use them. I find it challenging to read large amounts of text and spot mistakes in written text. 

What would you say to inspire others on their journey with dyslexia? 

Everyone is different, just because you are dyslexic doesn't mean you are the same to the person next to you. Be you, you are great!