I figured doing something I hadn’t yet done myself, that is ordering a Chinese, was a good way to celebrate a year of my independence.

Writing this, alone in my flat, with Immy asleep on my legs and Ellis somewhere doing Ellis things. I’m reminded of how different freedom looks for people. I spent the day doing exactly what I wanted, which was absolutely nothing and it was lovely.

It’s funny now when I think of all the things I thought I could never do. Being on my own at night, managing to walk Immy, put my shopping away, stand up for myself with the carers, the list goes on. I walk Immy now without thinking, and that’s always my favourite. We’re going to tackle a train together at some point in the year. Every thing I do makes me smile, because at one point I thought I’d fail. I thought I wouldn’t be able to do it. And yet…..

Big thank you to everyone that’s been there for me over the last year. But the biggest thank you will always go to my children, Immy and Ellis, forever my motivation to do the things I’m afraid of. And Bella, always, for showing me what love is.

🤎💛🩶

If I’ve learnt anything this year it’s that “You don’t just give up. You don’t just let things happen. You make a stand! You say no! You have the guts to do what’s right”. Peter Capaldi.