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A little thank you note…

Previously I have written a post to thank the NHS for what they have done for me over my time in recovery (scroll down to read it). It has not however, been only the NHS whom have helped me along the way. Quite frankly, it has been SO many people. This list of people includes teachers, support staff and even my old riding instructor. Although I know they probably won’t read this I still want to show my appreciation in the form of this letter.  

Dear You,  

First and foremost, thank you all for keeping me alive. Thank you for holding that safety net around me when I was unfortunately unable to do it for myself. You looked out for me, keeping me on the straight and narrow when all I wanted to do was self-destruct.  I know I wouldn’t be alive without that safety net you placed around me.

Thank you to those whom have sat there for hours whilst I laughed, cried or even just had a rant. I can never repay you for the time you spent with me and I may have not showed it at the time but honestly, I am so thankful. I may never be able to put my appreciation into words.  

Thank you to my old horse riding instructor. You helped me to build up confidence after so many times of being knocked down. It wasn’t when I’d just fallen off the horse, but it was also in day-to-day life. You also gave me invaluable time and space to breathe around the most beautiful of animals; my favourite animals. You helped me to become the person I am.  As did your animals.

Thank you to my old upper school head of year. Not only did you help me to actually pass Maths (a miracle) but you also did so much for me, more than a teacher should. You visited me in hospital, attended all of my CPAs and even when I wasn’t your student anymore, you’d still keep an eye out for me. You spent so much of your time supporting me and I probably added a lot more stress to your job, but this is a huge, genuine thank you.  

Thank you to my old Welfare advisor at College. In the best possible way, you were firm but fair. I guarantee that I would not be at University now without you continuing to push me to try my best. You added fight in me when I felt I couldn’t fight any longer and was a person I needed. I appreciate that you still check up on me from time-to-time to ensure that I am continuing to flourish and grow. Thank you.  

To all the teachers and lecturers that taught me throughout my time at school and college, thank you so much. You all helped me to reach my full potential, you didn’t allow me to give up on myself and without that I wouldn’t be at University now.  

To my old Arts Therapist (I know, technically NHS), thank you for inspiring me. You carried me through a therapy that I really connected with. You have inspired me to one-day become an arts therapist, to help individuals to express themselves creatively, when words failed. Just like I needed.  

To the teachers at the hospital school (I know again, technically through NHS means) thank you. I remember a lot of fun whilst a “student” there. It brought light when I was in such a dark place. R in particular pushed me to do well in my GCSEs and fought so hard when so many of my exam papers had been lost in the post. Thank you.  

Thank you to a lovely older lady that would pay for a couple of patients, whilst in hospital, to have weekly horse-riding lessons. This enabled me to spend time out and about whilst also encouraging me to eat and avoid incidents.  It also reminded me why I love the sport and time with such incredible animals.

To the staff at my university accommodation, thank you. I couldn’t have done this first year at university without your continued care and support. I’m going to miss you this year (I’m moving into a house for my second year) but as you’ve said, I can return if I need to. I hope to continue the ability of self-love that you so thoughtfully taught me. Thank you.

Thank you to the friends that I made whilst in hospital. We have all grown apart throughout the years since discharge but thank you. Thank you for being there for me in my darkest of moments, thank you for making me laugh and thank you for making that place a little bit brighter. I appreciate every one of you and am honored to see you all flourishing.  

Thank you to my friends, past and present. You may have not always understood what I was going through but you stuck by me and I appreciate that so much.  

Thank you to my family, I know my journey has been a whirlwind and we may have argued at times but I appreciate all that you have done for me. Thank you for being there for me.  

Thank you to my beautiful dog (I know he’s only a dog). You are such a bright light in my life. I know you are a dog and definitely can’t read this but I love you. You have sat on my lap, refusing to let me move at times when I have wanted to end my life. Somehow your magic sixth sense really works! 

There are so many others that I could thank but I’d be here all day. Anyone that has stood by me, thank you so much. I appreciate it.  

I’d like to finish by thanking you guys, my blog readers and Instagram followers. Thank you for taking time to read my rambles. You guys allow me the freedom to write and enjoy myself whilst I do it. I am finding a sense of closure through my writing; it wouldn’t be possible without you. Thank you.  

Lots of love,  

The Battle in my Brain Author. X X X