h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

I found your life story facinating. I can relate to early school problems due to ill health - I have a family history of 'chest' troubles - enough to make me determined not to pass it on!

Like you I am an OU Graduate (1981) the early days when the degree was a basic BA with a limited choice of topics. I am also a computer fanatic having decided in 1960 that I wanted to work in that area - I was just 10 (i.e. I am now 56).

I had the usual female problems getting into the role I had chosen and met the inevitable 'glass ceiling' many times.

I have been forced into early retirement - not only is my 'chest' still causing me trouble but I grew a brain tumour too. So here I am time on my hands, living on Government handouts after they made me 'live off my savings', struggling with a newly installed Windows XP which has caused me to lose much of my set up and trying to do some family history.

I also read a great deal and do voluntary work - not very sucessfully unfortunately - again a health issue! As far as the books are concerned - have you come across 'bookcrossing'? I am currently investigating it as it seems like a good idea!

Mum's story facinates me - I grew up on her stories and tried to join the Air Force at 21. Failed the medical of course! Also tried to get into the Civil service - and failed the medical - probably because I argued about my skill level with the people running the computer part of the service. I am glad I failed as since then I have worked as a contractor in several Government sites and frankly the skill levels were appauling - no wonder the systems fail so much!

My photo problems are low key as I need to get my machine back to where it was then I can start dealing with email again!