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31.01.2022
As 2022 began, we were delighted to receive some news of new beginnings and reflections from Sally on her Illuminate journey. She has given permission for us to share it here which we value and appreciate hugely – it is always lovely to hear from beneficiaries as they continue their personal journeys.
"Silent and still. I didn't want anyone to see me. I didn't want to be alone with myself. I was directed toward Illuminate at a particularly low point in 2021. Compounded years of trauma, grief and newly unemployed during a global pandemic, I was struggling to find the help that I desperately wished I didn't need.
When I hesitantly logged in to the first covid-secure zoom room, I was met with an overwhelming sense of ease. Smiles and welcomes, gentle words and likeminded people. This is the first step; I've made the decision to be here. I was mostly quiet, listening, and that was okay.
As we moved through the sessions of 'Confidence for Change' everyone became a little more familiar, another little friend fighting my corner. It was hard, I couldn't say anything nice about myself without bursting into tears but others helped me to shine a light through my depression. Together we grew to know ourselves a little bit more, share our bright moments and push back against the darkness and isolation we had become stuck in.
Over the months that followed, I was encouraged to connect with Illuminate’s Community Coach, Anna. My confidence began to return and I engaged in regular self-care and wellness sessions with Fay, re-learning how to take care of myself. I joined the 'Find Your Wild' project, the most incredible hands-on outdoor skills experience with Lindsay where I met some beautiful people. I gave myself time to heal and be creative, but perhaps most importantly shared invaluable time with Anna that quite literally changed my life.
I'm reflecting on my journey now, less than a year later, after a career overhaul and still discovering the best parts of me. I've started a new role with a growing arts and wellbeing charity, working, learning and celebrating each day with a wonderful team. I am producing my own art again and go out for walks because I love to enjoy the quiet and birdsong on my own (and with friends!). Some days are still tough, but Illuminate has enabled me to take care of myself in a way that makes those times manageable.”
Sally, 2022
If you'd like to hear more about how to get involved in our community work, email [email protected].
