ABSTRACT
In our experience, very few research projects run through from conception to conclusion without any hiccups whatsoever. We weren’t expecting an entirely smooth passage for our proposed work but the difficulties we encountered right from the start were such that there were times when it seemed highly unlikely that we would ever be able to even begin. In the first place, our initial application for ethical clearance was turned down and it took the best part of six months and three attempts to be given the go-ahead to proceed. Then, having spent a long time on preparing submissions, we failed to obtain funding from any of the various bodies we approached. Finally, we ran into trouble when, prior to its publication, a paper we had written about these experiences was felt to be problematic and we were encouraged and advised to make changes.
