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Daráine Mulvihill is a survivor of meningitis who broadcasts in England and her native Ireland. She was a presenter at the 2012 Paralympics in London.

I AM from Ireland. I live in Stillorgan in Dublin but grew up in a town called Ashbourne. I went to all-Irish speaking primary and secondary schools and have always been mad about sport - both playing and watching.

I AM proud of coming through a very tough year in hospital when I was 16. I had a very serious form of meningitis and doctors told my parents I probably would not live, let alone ever walk again.

To have survived that, and come out the other side more determined than ever to live a great life, was an achievement.

I AM excited about seeing Dave Henson compete. As someone who has tried out running blades, I have such respect for the athletes who compete on them.

That's especially the case for a competitor like Dave, who only lost his legs five years ago. Believe me, those things take time to get used to!

I AM inspired by Paralympic and Invictus Games athletes. Every time I see them perform it reminds me of what we are all capable of. It is so important for young disabled people to have role models to aspire to, and those athletes are just that - inspirational role models.

I AM also a former cross country runner. I also used to play the piano and teach sign language, although neither skill was very useful after I lost my fingers to meningitis!