Mandy Price’s motto “Rise up and show up” could not be more apt. The day after being removed from a ventilator on her first hospital admission, she sat in the intensive care unit completing a presentation for her Bachelor of Science Degree in Animal Welfare and Behaviour. Two days after her hospital discharge, she returned to study at Coleg Sir Gâr in Carmarthen.

Mandy has epilepsy and other medical conditions and cares for her partner and son, who has complex needs. Yet she finds time to study and support children as a Burns by Your Side reading volunteer with learning support dog, Daisy. Mandy’s third hospital stay followed her return from Greece, where she and five other students worked on a Loggerhead Sea Turtle Conservation Research Project. Her recovery has been arduous, forcing her to delay
completing her degree until the next academic year. “I have witnessed first-hand how education has served as a transformative force in Mandy’s life – a source of empowerment, enabling her to harness her strengths and channel her passion into meaningful endeavours,” said lecturer Stephanie Rees. “She has an indomitable spirit and sheer determination to thrive despite the complexities of her personal life.”

Mandy became interested in animal related studies after joining a support group and becoming a volunteer at Many Tears Animal Rescue. Despite doubting her own academic ability, she achieved a Foundation Degree in Animal Science and has now progressed to a BSc. Mandy intends to continue her studies, including a Master’s Degree in Children and Young People’s Mental Health and additional training to deliver pet first aid courses which will move her towards securing employment.

“Completing my Master’s degree would give me an identity outside of my mum and carer responsibilities,” she said. “I am determined to not let epilepsy define me. Without the degree course, I really do not know what path my mental and physical health would have taken.”