I have never known where, who, or what I was in the world. I struggled with bullying in high school and that impacted a lot of my life, sending me into a long process of trying to find myself. Growing up, I always felt different, not knowing where I fitted in, but sailing gave me the opportunity to explore and see what I could accomplish.
When I was in my twenties, I was offered an opportunity with The Prince’s Trust to explore sailing. It was something I had not considered before, but once I started, I was hooked. It wasn’t easy – I had to push myself physically and mentally – however, the programme gave me the push I needed. After it finished, I was offered my RYA Day Skipper training and some opportunities to help deliver yachts on the South Coast. I spent over a year in and out of marinas, meeting new and interesting people, and it gave me such a lust for life again.
Sailing gave me the gentle push to explore myself and learn skills such as independence and the ability to carry on when things felt tough. The things I experienced changed me, and I believe helped me to develop the coping strategies I would use when faced with further challenges.
Those challenges found me about twelve years ago when I started to lose my sight due to diabetic retinopathy. During this time, I also experienced the loss of my dad as well as my best friend. I felt lost and stuck, with no professional support. I went through a period of denial and anger; I blamed myself and my choices. However, I did find support through RYA Sailability in Somerset, and my love for sailing was rekindled. It gave me the push I needed to embrace the storm I was in. When I moved back in with my family due to personal circumstances, I began to look for further opportunities to sail – two charities (East Anglia Sailing Trust and VISA) helped me get back into it, and for that opportunity I am thankful.
When I saw The Neurodivergence Project plea from Matt on Facebook, it was like a lightbulb pinged, and I knew I had to get involved. I have many years of experience in health and social care, advocacy, and supporting young people within Sea Cadets and the Scouts. Having worked on projects such as employment and education access for individuals with sight loss and learning difficulties, I am very excited to see where the project can lead. I am confident my enthusiasm and experience will open up opportunities within East Anglia for neurodivergent people.