I was homeless. 

I don’t think it ever leaves you, the desperation, the dread in the pit of your stomach, as you wait for your friend to pick up the phone, so you can say, “Help me, I have nowhere to go.” 

I’d sidelined my career as a corporate lawyer to become a mum, and wasn't earning money - which didn't matter until our marriage fell apart in 2004. I left with £200, 3 kids and one suitcase.  We were penniless and homeless.

I called a friend and asked if we could stay. It was just for a week or so, I told her. A week became six months, with the four of us squashed into one room while I tried to work out what to do. My youngest, just a toddler at the time, was in a travel cot.

At night, once the children were asleep, I would walk for hours wondering if I had done the right thing.  Should I have stayed in an unhappy marriage for the children?

I blamed myself sometimes, not circumstances. But the experience made me the successful entrepreneur I am today, because I had no choice but to succeed – failure was not an option.

I pawned a few of the valuables I had to raise cash. I taught yoga, and approached businesses for work as a legal consultant. I saved as much as I could, and after six months I had enough for the deposit on a rented flat. In 2008 I set up my diet delivery and natural juice programme company, Nosh Detoxwhich has gone from strength to strength.

There are people whom I haven’t seen since I was homeless. At the time, I felt ashamed, so I withdrew. 

I have been very lucky.  Many others haven't.  They are still homeless, still struggling.  Help me to help them and make a difference.

Any amount will be gratefully received.