I was diagnosed when I was eight so I don't remember a lot but there are some things that have stuck with me.  I had tonsillitis and my GP told my mum that he wanted me to have a blood test because he thought something wasn't quite right with me.  So after maybe two or three tests, my paediatrician said I had hypothyroidism.  I didn't understand what was going on and I remember crying hysterically because she said I would have to take tablets for the rest of my life.  I guess I must have been super scared about that!  I'm just really glad it was caught early.

I think it would've been a completely different experience if I was diagnosed when I was maybe 12 or 13. 

I don't remember having symptoms before taking the medication but the biggest symptom I have now is getting tired easily and keeping my weight up because I'm really slim which is weird for hypothyroidism. I make sure I prioritise a good night’s sleep over getting school work done for example and I try to eat little and often. As I said, I do get tired a lot and this has definitely affected my productivity some days at school. This can make me lack motivation which has its negatives and can be really frustrating.

Remembering to take my medication every day is really important so I keep mine in the cutlery drawer. I know this sounds weird but when I go to make breakfast I always see it! But to be honest, I've been taking levothyroxine for so long it's become part of my routine. 

My best piece of advice for others who were scared like me would be to assure yourself that you're going to get better and taking two or three (or however many it is) tablets becomes such a small, although important, part of your life and hopefully it won't consume your life. It won’t stop you from doing anything you want to.

The only worry I sometimes have is whether it will affect other health issues I may have further down the line. But I have everything under control now so I hope it doesn't!