Ill health inspired Sarah Hyland to become actress

Los Angeles, April 16: Actress Sarah Hyland decided to become an actress after being told that she might "never have a normal life" due to her health issues.

The "Modern Family" actress was diagnosed with kidney dysplasia — a condition that results in fluid-filled cysts because the organs fail to develop properly — as a baby, and was forced to undergo a transplant in 2012. She believes her health issues have made her stronger and more ambitious, reports femalefirst.co.uk.

The 24-year-old star explained: "I was born with so many health issues that doctors told my mother I would never have a normal life. And she said, ‘You’re right, she won’t – but it won’t be because of her health.’ When my mother told me that story, it resonated with me: If I can’t have an ordinary life, I might as well have an extraordinary one. If you set your mind to something, you’ll achieve it.

"When you’re feeling vulnerable, it can lead to doubt and second-guessing. It will steer you away from your goals and your happiness.Once you have a goal, keep moving forward – even if you’re taking baby steps."

Hyland feels grateful for everything she has achieved to date.

"I am happiest when I am doing something I love. And I love ‘Modern Family’ – it’s the best job I’ve had in my 20 years as an actress. It didn’t come easily or fast or free: It took me 14 years to land a gig like this," she told Seventeen magazine. (Bollywood Country Report)