BIO
2014
A vision for the future
The wonderful Hoffman Process week was so incredibly special. My group of twenty four formed deep and lasting bonds, now four years strong.
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During the Process, we worked on our ability to create a Vision for the future. The Vision I shared was to turn a story I wrote for my children when they were small into a children's book. With absolutely no clue how to make this happen, a full-time job and a busy life, this dream would previously have fallen by the wayside. This time, Process practices got me back on track when I wandered off.
2014
a catalyst for joy
I was diagnosed with Parkinson's at 47. Without Hoffman, I don't know how I would have coped. The Hoffman work on transference helped me deal with other people's responses to my news. I used the Hoffman app to keep up practices I'd found so restorative during the Process. Quad Checks - where you check in with the physical, emotional, mental and spiritual aspects of yourself - were calming and Gratitudes were lifesaving.
2016
KEEPING IT CLEAN AT SALTBURN
I spent a lot of time walking on my local beach during the first year of my diagnosis. Collecting rubbish along the shoreline became a kind of mindfulness practice. Before long, I was posting my beach cleans on social media, highlighting the problems of plastic pollution across the UK and beyond.
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I invited local, like-minded souls to fundraise to purchase a #2minutebeachclean board, which reduces beach litter by approximately 60%. Our group now has a Facebook following of over 1,000 and our monthly beach clean attracts between 30 to 130 volunteers of all ages. As well as a cleaner beach, we've created a wonderful community who care about making the world a better place.
2018
THE GIFTS OF IMPERFECTION
In June, I shared a short video of my hand tremor with a closed group of Instagram friends. I wanted to share something real - not just the smiles and filtered images I usually post.
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A couple of weeks later, a parcel containing a book arrived - and not just any book. It was The Gifts of Imperfection by Brene Brown with a handwritten note.
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Not only had I received this wonderful gift but my friend had taken the time to hand write a letter to Brene Brown about me! Mind = blown! Being authentic was bringing me love and connection.
2019
A DREAM COME TRUE
After my diagnosis, the idea of completing my book took on new meaning. I decided to make a success of this venture. So I asked a small publishing house to make a mock-up of the book.
When the first copy arrived through the post for me to hold, it was a really special moment. My 'pie-in-the-sky' vision had been realised.
2022
DBS and Me
Very proud of my collaboration with PDUK for a 12 part docuseries that's already had over 1 million views!
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View the trailer here.
2023
TEDx talk
Super excited to be sharing my story at TEDx Warrington 16th November!
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Theme: Tackling adversity, Embracing change is about sharing fresh ideas that reflect diversity, innovative spirit and strength of character.
