My youngest son was born prematurely at 32 weeks weighing 2lbs 6oz back in 1991. After a history of problems (2 mid term miscarriages and first son born prematurely also, plus pre-eclampsia with both pregnancies) I was relieved when he was born alive to be honest!  Anyway, I was told he would probably always be on the small side for his age but what he lacked in size he made up for with mouth, believe me! 

From an early age he wanted to become a police officer like a lot of little boys do but it stayed with him and became obvious that not only was it something he wanted to do but something he would be very good at.  As soon as he was able at the age of 18, he joined the Special Constabulary - volunteer police - and did that for 3 years while working full time in jobs he detested, biding his time until he could hopefully become a "real" police officer.  But the force weren't recruiting because of lack of funds and he wondered if he would ever achieve his ambition.

Last year they opened recruiting in our area for the first time in a few years and he applied, making it through to the assessment centre.  Even though he passed, his score wasn't high enough to reach the final interview as only 50 people would be taken on.  He was gutted.  However, he was offered the post of Police Community Support Officer and after a lot of consideration he accepted, despite having to give up his warrant card.  It was a secure full time job in the police with very good pay and not to be sniffed at.

This year they were recruiting between 50 and 80 police officers and he applied again.  This time he got through to the final interview - and this time he did it.  He was told he was exceptional at the interview stage and was being offered the post of police officer subject to the usual checks, etc.  He starts his role as student police officer in January.

My 2lbs 6oz baby has achieved his dream at the age of 22 and I am so proud of him its untrue. So forgive me for my bragging post but the baby I thought might not even be born alive has made me the proudest mum ever!