My story sounds similar to a lot of people on here. I started flying when I was 16 and still at school. Eventually got my PPL at 22 and my CPL at 23. Now I'm finally doing what I set out to do all those years ago..... getting paid to fly!!!
I started off working crappy jobs to pay for the flying (you name it I've done it!!) Then I got a job behind the desk at a flying school, which was the best thing that ever happened to me. I learn't so much being around the airport all the time. You didn't say if you were looking at a career in aviation, but one of the most important things is networking and getting to know people in the industry and I had the best opportunity to do this.
I guess what I'm trying to say, and what everyone else is saying is NEVER GIVE UP!!!!!! You'll get there in the end, and working hard to pay for it yourself will make it seem all the sweeter in the end. And most importantly HAVE FUN DOING IT!!!!!!!!!!!!
Another thing I've just thought of. There are numerous organisation out there that offer scholarships for all or various parts of your training.
The Womens Pilots Association is one I know of, anyone else know of any others?