Finding that I had a sister who needed more help than me was a gradual realisation over a period of many years. When I was younger I often noticed that I was perhaps brighter than my older sister as I could read and understand books of a much higher standard. I also found it easier to do physical activities and I often had to help Romana when we were playing. I learnt to ride a bike when I was very young (I cannot remember when) but Romana is still unable to ride. My parents have told me that I even started walking 4 months before Romana, even though she is 22 months older than me.

Me and Romana

As I grew older I was often embarrassed by Romana’s behaviour in public because she doesn’t care about drawing attention to herself and will talk to perfect strangers about all sorts of things, even when they are not interested. However, with help from both me and my parents she is now much improved, although still forgets sometimes.

Romana has an exceptionally good memory and often reminds me when I forget to do things. She is also very good with technology and sometimes has to show me how to use new software programs and video games. She is very helpful and enjoys showing me how to do things.

Although I have lots of friends in this area, Romana goes to a special school in Winchester and none of her friends live near here. However, this is not too much of a problem because she enjoys talking to adults more than children of her own age and has lots of older friends amongst our neighbours. She also likes the company of younger children and often plays with our younger neighbours.

I think that having a sister with special needs has enabled me to be a better person because I am aware that everyone is different. Many pupils at my school are very narrow-minded and make fun of anybody who does not act in the same way as them. Although I sometimes wonder what it would be like to have a sister without learning difficulties I think that if I had the choice then I wouldn’t change anything.