Breaking Down Barriers

Nail techs share how they navigate challenges to flourish in their careers

OLIVIA RAHMAN-INNOCENT

Nail artist with Addison’s disease, based in Chorley, Lancashire

www.trulyinnocentnails.co.uk@trulyinnocentnails &

@nailswithoutlimitsTrulyInnocentNails@trulyinnocentnails

SUCCESS AGAINST THE ODDS: living with Addison’s disease

Addison’s Disease Day is 29 May.

The blue butterfly is seen as a symbol of Addison’s disease, as it represents a new stage of life with the challenges that are experienced following a diagnosis. Blue butterflies are also rare, like the condition.

Addison’s disease, also known as primary adrenal insufficiency, is a rare chronic disorder that affects the adrenal glands, which are on top of the kidneys. It requires me to take lifelong hormone replacement medication, prednisolone, which replaces my cortisol but has side effects. People with Addison’s disease may experience symptoms like extreme tiredness, areas of darker skin, weight loss, nausea, joint pain and muscle weakness. When in ‘adrenal crisis’, symptoms can include cardiovascular distress, severe leg, back and stomach pain, extreme weakness and loss of consciousness.

When I first fell ill, I was in hospital for a long time, as doctors did not know what was happening to me and told me I was dying. After lots of specialist tests, I was informed that I have Addison’s disease and would be on medication for the rest of my life. The first year after my diagnosis, I was very poorly with additional illnesses, including osteopenia, heart issues, severe asthma and a blood clotting condition, and I had an adrenal crisis which left me bedbound in hospital. Because of this, I use a wheelchair and crutches. I must also wake up an hour earlier than I plan to get up, so I can ensure that prednisolone is in my system.

I joined the nail industry last year and have found amazing support from other techs, including my nail bestie, Casey Hayzelden (@thenailshed_bycasey). She has taken me to events and helped grow my confidence. Brands like Roxi and Glitterbels have also supported me when I’ve attended their events in my wheelchair, and while training at The Acrylic Nail Academy in Bolton, the course was moved to a ground floor room to accommodate my needs.

With Casey Hayzelden.

I have learned to be open and honest about my condition, and my clients know that I will rearrange their appointments if I am unwell. I explain Addison’s disease to them, but these conversations can be tough as I have PTSD. I’ve found that being clear in my business policies and creating leaflets on Canva helps me share my story.

Kim, the owner of Pure Skin & Beauty in Chorley, where I rent a chair, is amazing. She has supported me with workplace adjustments, such as bringing my nail desk and pedicure station into one room for easy access and changing the metal shutters to roller blinds, as I struggle to pull down and lift shutters. The other members of the salon team are so accommodating and ask my clients if they would like a drink, so I don’t have to struggle on my crutches. Another great aspect of the business is that I can bring my dog, Betsy, who alerts me when my cortisol levels are dropping. She cuddles up next to my chair and helps alleviate anxiety about my condition.

I have recently launched Instagram page, @nailswithoutlimits, to bring together techs with disabilities, mental health issues and learning difficulties, as well as those who feel that they need extra support. I plan for the platform be a valuable source of information for brands, so they can accommodate diverse needs with equipment and at events. I would also like to create a support pack for disabled people wanting to work in the nail industry and grow a business, offering discount codes, advice and group video calls. Having a chronic illness can feel overwhelming, so being part of a community that understands makes the world of difference.

No matter what anyone says, we can all be extraordinary and beat the odds. I was told that I’d never be strong enough to lead the life I do now, or even still be alive, but I celebrate my 30th birthday next month, am married to my wonderful husband and have successfully set up my own nail business.