My journey......

Life Learning

Since age 5 I knew I wanted to be a teacher, I had a chalkboard, was bossy and I was  driven, I set my sights on achieving this and worked hard to make it happen.  As a little girl my family looked after/fostered those who were much less fortunate than we were, I would study surrounded by chaos and I too nurtured and loved those children, Attachment, communication, challenging behaviour all something that drew me in from an early age.

Now 22 years on I am fortunate enough to support pupils with Social, Emotional, Mental Health difficulties, to be part of a team who strive to positively impact and improve young people’s life chances, to teach them that they matter, that they are valued and ultimately to go on and be positive members of the society in which we live. 

Square Pegs too aims to builds confidence, self esteem, communication skills & wellbeing in its young people. They nurture friendships and social skills by creating a supportive & caring environment where everyone feels valued, respected, able to be themselves and have a real sense of belonging.

Running

I began running six years ago, my marriage had ended and it filled a void, it distracted me...and it hurt!  

Six years later, life is sweet, I’m in a good place and I am happy, content and I now run because I can, because it relieves me of the stresses of the day, because it’s routine and ultimately because I love it.  

The loss of my dad last year and the COVID Pandemic reinforced the need to be strong and healthy.  I reduced my BMI and I made sure my heart was as healthy as it could be, I literally ran and ran to give myself the best chance and ultimately save my family from the pain of further loss.

Eighteen  months ago with the support of my man and my crazily driven brother I joined a running club, to make friends, for support on those longer runs and to be part of something....but can I run a marathon.......I’m not sure yet but like everything I’ll give it a go. 

I will need grit and determination, positive thoughts and the sheer pressure that you guys have sponsored me to get me through, to know that my efforts will not only help me achieve a goal but also that I am helping others.

In summary

 Life is not about ‘fitting in’, it’s about being who we are in a society that is kind and accepts us for who we are.

Be kind to me, be kind to Square Pegs and enable their hard work to continue and just be aware that everyone’s journey is different.