My Life Now - meet optical consultant Georgia

It’s been 19 years since the Trust first set sail – what are the young people who have been on trips up to now? Our 'My Life Now' series shows a positive future after cancer is a reality. Georgia felt more optimistic for her future after being support by the Trust.

Name: Georgia Pickerill

Age: 21

Pronouns: she/her

Diagnosis/year? Pilocytic astrocytoma-2004

When did you fist sail with the Trust? July 2018

What do you do now? I’m an optical consultant for Boots opticians

Explain what that means?

I pre-screen the patients before their eye tests and take measurements for their new glasses

Why did you want to do this?

Having previously been studying for a career in accountancy, I worked out it wasn’t the right career path for me. I wasn’t sure what career I wanted to follow but the prospect of being able to work whilst learning on the job was really appealing.

What’s the coolest thing you’ve done lately?

Being asked back for and passing Graduate Volunteer training with the Trust.

Why did you need the Trust’s support in recovery?

Having finished treatment, I had no self-confidence and poor mental health. I felt completely alone with no one who understood the experiences I’d been through.

What part has the Trust played in you doing what you do now?

The Trust gave me the confidence to believe in myself and attempt things I never thought I could. They’ve made me realise that a life after treatment is possible and there are other young people out there who think and feel the same way I do.

What’s your top tip for young people interested in working in your industry?

Don’t let anything hold you back, you can achieve anything you put your mind to. Don’t compare yourself to anyone else because we all have something amazing to offer that no one else can.