When Mandy Price says her motto is “Rise up and show up”, she means it.
The 49‑year‑old from Carmarthen has faced more than her share of challenges — including spending five weeks in hospital after a series of clustered epileptic seizures. Yet just a day after being taken off a ventilator, she was in intensive care, laptop open, finishing a university presentation.
Two days after leaving hospital, she was back at her lectures at Coleg Sir Gâr in Carmarthen, working towards her BSc in Animal Welfare and Behaviour.
Balancing study, care and community
Alongside her studies, Mandy cares for her partner and son, who has complex needs. She also volunteers as a Burns by Your Side reading mentor, helping children build confidence with the support of her learning assistance dog, Daisy.
Her determination has now been recognised with the Learning for Better Health Award at this year’s Inspire! Adult Learning Awards. The ceremony will take place at Swansea’s Brangwyn Hall on 18 September, as part of Adult Learners’ Week in Wales.
From rescue centre to degree course
Mandy’s passion for animal welfare began after joining a support group and volunteering at Many Tears Animal Rescue. There, equestrian yard manager Katy Kear encouraged her to pursue formal study.
Despite doubting her academic ability, Mandy completed a Foundation Degree in Animal Science before progressing to her current BSc course. She even spent time in Greece working on a Loggerhead Sea Turtle Conservation Research Project — returning home just before her third hospital stay.
‘Education has transformed my life’
“I am determined not to let my epilepsy define me,” Mandy said. “Without the degree course, I really don’t know what path my mental and physical health would have taken.”
Her lecturer and award nominator, Stephanie Rees, described her as “a source of empowerment, enabling her to harness her strengths and channel her passion into meaningful endeavours.”
Looking ahead
Mandy plans to continue her studies with a Master’s in Children and Young People’s Mental Health, alongside training to deliver pet first aid courses — with the aim of securing a role that combines her skills and passions.
Celebrating lifelong learning
Adult Learners’ Week runs from 15–21 September, with in‑person taster courses, online sessions and advice available across Wales. The awards, co‑ordinated by Learning and Work Institute with Welsh Government support, celebrate people who have embraced learning to change their lives and communities.
Welsh Government Cabinet Secretary for Education, Lynne Neagle, said: “Adult Learners’ Week is a chance to celebrate the achievements of learners and to inspire people to discover how learning can positively change their lives.”
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