16 February 2023

My Life Now - meet Interior Architecture and Design Graduate Louise

It’s been 20 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. The support of the Trust allowed Louise to be herself and equipped her with the tools to move forward with life after cancer.

Louise coasteering on an outdoor adventure tripName: Louise Dalgleish

Age: 22

Diagnosis/year? Fanconi anaemia & aplastic anaemia diagnosed aged 6 (2007).

When did you first sail with the Trust? I first sailed with the Trust in 2012.

What do you do now? I’m a recent graduate of Interior Architecture and Design.

Explain what that means? In my work, I explore how to integrate accessibility with design, and I research areas of design which are often ignored in the architecture world.

Why did you want to do this?

I chose this career path because my relationship with spaces has the strongest impact on how I feel. From experience, the existence of a space can create a powerful emotional response. Being a designer is taking control and understanding the versatility of interiors.

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

Aside from designing - the coolest thing I’ve done recently is join a drag king collective! Drag kings are just like drag queens in the sense of performing an exaggerated form of yourself!

Louise pictured posing in the drag king collectiveWhy did you need the Trust’s support in recovery?

My first trip in 2012 introduced me to others going through similar treatment - we shared experiences, and the sailing really taught me that I could be independent and reminded me of my capabilities, which I often forgot when I was just seen as a patient or unwell person by people I knew.

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

The Trust has certainly given me tools to prepare me for my industry. Many aspects of the Trust trip dynamics seep into my career. From team building - to being given a platform to discuss health issues, it’s given me an understanding of the importance of being myself when meeting new faces and has built my confidence over the years.

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

Collaboration is so important and to develop your work you need to share it, and you’ll see the progress. It’s ok for it to go wrong, too! I’ve had to draw out a floor plan over 110 times for a single building. It can be frustrating in the moment, but once you set yourself an end point, you’ll see progress and that is so valuable.