Penny Lancaster has revealed her struggles with undiagnosed dyslexia, a condition that significantly impacted her school life. The wife of musician Sir Rod Stewart shared her experiences during an interview on RTE radio in Ireland, promoting her memoir, *Someone Like Me*.
Penny Lancaster’s Hidden Health Battle
The 54-year-old model and television personality highlighted the challenges she faced while growing up. Despite her eagerness to learn, dyslexia made traditional education difficult for her. She expressed that her condition wasn’t recognized in school, leading to feelings of dismissal and neglect.
Impact of Dyslexia on School Life
During her interview, Lancaster recalled, “It made school extremely hard.” She faced a culture where if students couldn’t learn in conventional ways, they were often ignored. This left her struggling to find her place among her peers. Bullying compounded her issues, as she was frequently marginalized for being different.
- Raised in Essex.
- Diagnosed with dyslexia later in life.
- Faced bullying for her unusual interests and mannerisms.
The model described reading aloud as one of her “absolute terrors,” particularly in English classes. She now views the completion of her book and recording the audio version as a significant personal achievement.
Support from Family and Friends
Penny credited her parents for their unwavering support during these tough years. She stated, “I wouldn’t have got through it without their support.” Their encouragement helped her navigate through bullying and the pressures of academic life.
Shifting Perspectives on Bullying
Interestingly, Lancaster has no animosity towards her former bullies. She emphasized the importance of empathy, suggesting that understanding the challenges faced by others can foster compassion. “There must be something upsetting in their world,” she noted.
Penny Lancaster’s story is a testament to resilience. From her struggles with dyslexia and bullying to publishing a memoir, she has come full circle. Her experiences highlight the importance of recognizing individual differences in learning and the impact of support from loved ones.
