A young musician from the Isle of Wight has overcome a litany of health issues to realise one of his dreams.
For Daniel Ashdown, life has thrown up a steady stream of obstacles.
The 20-year-old was born on the Island via emergency caesarean due to lack of movement in the womb and was rushed up to King College Hospital when he was only a few days old.
His father, Keith, explains:
"He was diagnosed with Alpha 1 (a condition that raises your risk for lung and other diseases) when he was just a few weeks old.
"Although it’s good to get a diagnosis relatively quickly, for his mum — Elaine — and myself, I can honestly say it was terrifying.
"I remember feeling so scared and not knowing whether he was going to live or die.
Daniel, who is currently studying a degree in Commercial Music at Platform One College, made his Isle of Wight Festival debut last summer, achieving a long-held ambition in the process.
He said:
"I’ve grown up knowing I have Alpha 1 but in reality, my day to day life is pretty normal.
"My liver condition only really restricts me from drinking and smoking, which isn’t a bad thing!
"I’ve always loved music, so once I get my degree I’m hoping to do a Masters — I really feel that this course has given me the tools and knowledge I need to succeed in the music industry."
(R-L): Daniel as a baby and aged 12 with his grandad, Terry.
In addition to studying, Daniel has been part of four-piece 1980s alternative rock and psychedelia band 'Obscure Colours' since 2019.
Daniel continues:
"Last year we got to play the Isle Of Wight Festival thanks to Platform One College. It was one of the best experiences of my life and I really hope to be playing there more often.
"My advice to other young people who have Alpha 1 would be keep healthy and listen to your doctors’ advice. You will come under peer pressure but don’t give into it."
Appeal Following Fail-To-Stop Collision In Cowes
Transfer Of Powers Causing Isle Of Wight Councillor Concern
Red Funnel Raises More Than £21,000 To Fuel Isle Of Wight Foodbank Mission
Two Island Groups Honoured With King's Award For Voluntary Service
Council Leader Labels Isle Of Wight Housing 'Number One Priority'
'Vibrant And Caring' East Cowes School Receives Uplifting Ofsted Feedback
Northwood House Set For Significant Facility Upgrade
New Community Grant Scheme To Launch Next Week
Newport Set For New 'Low Cost' Housing For Six People Despite Opposition
Sandown Hotel Could Be Transformed Into Flats
Wipe Out: Former Cowes Public Toilet Site Set To Become Café
Low-Income Households On Isle Of Wight To Benefit From £1.1 Million Household Support Fund
Amazing Isle Of Wight: Listener Photo Gallery
Islanders Gather To Commemorate Fallen Heroes For Ryde Remembrance Sunday
Isle Of Wight Dog Controls Could Be Reinstated To Prevent Anti-Social Behaviour
Isle Of Wight Affordable Housing Scheme Set To Come Under Spotlight
Intensified Focus To Tackle Knife Crime On Isle Of Wight
Falcons Fly Again At Robin Hill
Woman Handed Criminal Behaviour Order Following Continuous Issues In Newport
Brading Residents Set For Tax Increase 'To Keep Everything Running'
