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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
2020
what's next
Hopes:
To find an agent/ publisher for my book 'Jeremy- A noisy child'
To continue my advocacy for Parkinson's Disease
To beach clean
To be as healthy as I can