PEOPLE who don't know local businesswoman Kara-Jane McGill often marvel at her professional appearence and fantastic organisational skills.

But behind this young woman's polished exterior lies an inspirational story of drive and determination against all odds.

For 27-year-old Kara-Jane, of Cheddar Avenue in South Shore, has struggled against acute behavioural and learning difficulties her entire life.

Meaning she was unable to hold down a job, studies or function normally within society until diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) four years ago.

Since then Kara-Jane has managed to complete numerous courses in business studies, wordprocessing, desktop publishing, advertising, telemarketing and tuition skills.

And has now established herself as one of the Fylde's most promising young entrepreneur's after setting up her own home-based business Elite Tuition and Secretarial Services with a start-up loan from The Princes Trust and is campaigning to raise awareness of ADHD.

Kara-Jane said: "ADHD is a behavioural and learning disorder and is as devastating to sufferers as Downs Syndrome and autism etc without being visibly obvious.

"Nobody was aware of my condition until my diagnosis and treatment when I was 23 years old!

"People, including myself, could never understand what was wrong, as I am a smart, well presented, intelligent woman.

"But I had these very unusual and uncontrollable symptoms including hyperactivity, inability to concentrate, no impulse control and self-defeating behaviour.

"Now people can barely believe I am the same person as my social skills and attitude to my business are so positive.

"I follow everything through to completion in an organised, conscientious manner, which is something I was just never capable of doing before.

"And I hope that my story will give inspiration and hope to all other ADHD sufferers and help to increase the profile of the condition."