Christine felt that one way of keeping her brain active and developing new friendships was to embark on a period of study.  She has undertaken a variety of courses at the college over the last three years and will graduate this year with two further qualifications; The Foundation Certificate in Food Hygiene (awarded in April) and ICT for Users covering Introduction to Computers and Using the Internet and Email.

However, Christine could not continue her studies without the support of The Cedar Foundation.  The Cedar Foundation has been working in partnership with the college since 1995 and delivers a range of services which empower and support people with disabilities to be fully included in their communities. Their vision is to play a leading role in the achievement of a community in which people with disabilities are valued and participate as equal citizens.  The Cedar Foundation supports Christine in the provision of a taxi which takes her to and from her home in Comber to the Ballyboley campus where she undertakes her studies. Without this support, Christine would remain housebound and would not benefit from her interaction with lecturers and fellow students.

Christine said, “I had been housebound for about 5 years before I was put in contact with The Cedar Foundation.  They have been great in supporting me and helping me get to and from the college.  The staff at the college is very friendly and professional and the small, informal environment at Ballyboley makes me feel comfortable and relaxed.  I feel much more confident and am determined to keep going and stay out of a wheelchair for as long as possible.”