Sunshine & Flowers – A5 paperback colouring book

Just before my 40th birthday my health began to change and over time decline, I was finding I was able to do less and less of my normal activity. It seemed to happen very quickly at first and I found myself very poorly and signed off work for the first time, it was difficult and scary. I lost a significant amount of weight in a short time, could barely eat or drink and the pain and exhaustion were an added challenge. 

I recovered in time enough to return to work or so I believed. In reality I struggled every day with fatigue, pain and various symptoms but I was trying to ignore the severity and keep going.....that I would come to learn was a huge mistake on my part. 

Fast forward to 2020, it was a time of uncertainty for most of us and a period of time that really forced me to address my heath issues for me but also my beautiful family. 

My body was now forcing me to listen and I had to take a longer period of time off work that would lead to me not returning to my job in the health and social care sector. That was the hardest thing, accepting that things would be very different moving forwards and I could not imagine not working in the conventional way. I loved my jobs and my independence.

Both my mental and psychical health were declining and I found myself in a difficult place. 

However during this period I also found I had the time, for the first time to really step back and look at what I could do rather than what I couldn't do. 

I was able to help and support my oldest friend more while she was also struggling in a huge way and visit/check in on my dad more. 

I found an amazing online creative community ( Conscious Crafties ) full of beautiful souls, each one supporting/encouraging each other while they themselves were on their own journey, struggles,  learning to adapt. 

This was the beginning of my new journey which continues to change and evolve with ups and downs but never alone. I began creating again, creating art again. Using art as a therapy I opened up my little online shop and began to sell some of my small creations but most importantly share those creations and grow my confidence, find I still have value and purpose with the help and support of this amazing community and my family.

Its on ongoing journey and life is still tough. I live with chronic pain, extreme fatigue and a host of symptoms that go along with. I accept that I cannot work in the conventional way.  I can have weeks or months at a time where I am able to do very little and struggle in a big way but having the support there, be able to stay connected with a community of people who understand has been & continues to be the biggest support and encouragement. Its a huge privilege to be a tiny part of  this community and exciting as we move forwards together with everyone who is part of Mightie Makers.

Mandy xx