I can't say that my disability has helped my work, but it has allowed me to concentrate on research without having to lecture or sit on boring committees.

My advice to other disabled people would be, concentrate on things your disability doesn't prevent you doing well, and don't regret the things it interferes with. Don't be disabled in spirit as well as physically.

The downside of my celebrity is that I cannot go anywhere in the world without being recognized. It is not enough for me to wear dark sunglasses and a wig. The wheelchair gives me away.

Work gives you meaning and purpose and life is empty without it.

I have a full and satisfying life. My work and my family are very important to me.

I grew up thinking that a research scientist was a natural thing to be.