"Help Me, Help Others: Fuelled by Heart and Hope"

If you know me, you are aware of my recent struggles. In December 2021, I faced a life-changing diagnosis of CFS/ME & Fibromyalgia following an injury. Recently, I received another diagnosis, Osteoarthritis of my Lumbar Spine, affecting my mobility and causing chronic pain. If you are not familiar with my journey, please read on to learn more about my story and the transformative project I am eager to launch.

"Your generosity fuels our impact, be part of something bigger."

My story is one of inspiration, driven by a deep desire to make a positive impact within my community and beyond, because together, we're stronger.

My journey began with the profound influence of my Grandad, who battled Motor Neurones Disease. His all to quick passing and the missed opportunity to say goodbye was all too much.

I then received another devastating blow: my Dad, my best friend, was diagnosed with Parkinson's. I grappled with a sense of helplessness. Two horrendous diseases, how could life be so cruel.

Initially, I wanted this journey to be solely about my Dad—supporting him through his trials. But life had other plans. I, too, fell ill, and my beloved Grandma faced her own battle with Cancer. Her unwavering determination in the face of a terminal illness inspired me deeply. Her strength compelled me to persevere, knowing that if she could fight so tenaciously, I had no excuse for self-pity. It fuelled my dedication to the project I had been quietly developing.

Throughout my life, I have always been compelled to assist those in need. Perhaps it’s why I chose to become a publican—to create a space where people could find solace, support and laughter.

My Dad and I discussed my mission to establish something meaningful, and with his blessing, I found the courage to be open and transparent. Our shared vision centre’s on supporting others, extending compassion beyond our family circle.

Believe me, I could recount the depth of my Dad's journey, from a brain tumour when I was a child to his current battle with Parkinson's, a story of unyielding determination. Nothing has broken his spirit, and he refuses to let Parkinson's define him. He's a warrior, much like my Grandma.

Then there is my own journey, stemming from a fall in December 2021, followed by a complete breakdown at work in March 2022, accelerating my symptoms and becoming less mobile. I couldn't work, and my condition deteriorated, far from the clear career and family vision I once had. The struggle intensified when I found myself lacking the expected support from healthcare services and the benefit system, sinking into a seemingly endless abyss of depression.

As I reached out to others and shared my story, I discovered I wasn't alone. Many faced similar challenges—struggles to be seen, heard, to access treatments and financial support. It became abundantly clear that I had to do something to help. With time on my hands and an innate desire to make a difference, I realised I wasn't alone in my journey. Through social media, my vast network of friends, and the communities I have worked with in the hospitality sector, more and more people began reaching out. Remarkably, my mood shifted, inspired by the collective will to overcome obstacles. Chronic pain and depression took a back seat as my newfound purpose emerged.

Today, I'm wholly dedicated to raising funds to establish my own nonprofit organization. My mission is rooted in transparency, community-centric change, and a vision of enduring impact. I invite you to join me on this transformative journey—together, we can make a difference, and it all starts with a heart filled with hope."