Just before I turned fifty, I became unwell. After many hospital visits and investigations, it was decided that I needed a full hysterectomy. Just before Christmas 2020, I underwent the operation.

Thankfully, my physical recovery was quick. I was surrounded by incredible people who lifted me up, cared for me, and supported me through that difficult time. Their kindness is something I still carry with me and remain deeply grateful for.

But while the physical scars healed, a much bigger challenge began to emerge.

I found myself asking a question that wouldn't go away:

Who am I?

My children were growing up and no longer needed me in the way they had when they were small. I could no longer have children, and although I never planned to have more at nearly fifty, the fact that the choice had been taken away from me affected me more than I expected.

I had always worked, but suddenly I felt the need for change. The question kept returning.

Who am I beyond the roles I play?

My life had always been framed by titles—mother, sister, aunt, wife, friend. They were all important parts of me, but none seemed to explain who I truly was underneath it all.

So I began a journey of self-discovery.

I started exploring my purpose, my passions, my strengths, and the things that brought me joy. For the first time in many years, I focused on what life looked like when my own needs and wants had a place at the table.

I travelled again.

I painted.

I cooked.

I walked.

I talked.

I read.

I wrote.

And of course, I worked.

After years of caring for children, supporting others, and simply surviving the busyness of life, it felt like the right time to fully embrace who I was becoming.

As I changed, so did the world around me.

My relationships with my family evolved as my older children began creating lives of their own. I found myself stepping back, watching proudly as they navigated their own journeys.

My friendships deepened too. Our conversations became about more than children and responsibilities. We talked about dreams, challenges, growth, health, and the next chapter of our lives.

I began focusing on what I call the four pillars of health—physical wellbeing, mental wellbeing, meaningful connection, and purpose. Gradually, I felt better than I had in years.

I fell in love with food again.

I said yes to travelling with family, friends, and sometimes entirely on my own.

I dedicated part of my garden to growing and filled my flower beds with beautiful plants.

With every step, I felt more connected—to myself, to nature, and to the people around me.

Those small daily practices became the foundation of a more mindful, intentional life.

And that's where Tenacious began.

Around two years ago, the idea was born from a desire to share what I had learned. I wanted to show how a mindfulness-based lifestyle can positively impact everyday life, especially during times of change such as menopause, midlife, and personal transition.

Tenacious is a place where I can share my experiences, the practices that have helped me, and the products, tools, and ideas that support wellbeing and intentional living.

Today, I am immensely proud of what Tenacious has become.

I don't know exactly where the journey will lead, but I hope you'll join me along the way.

Together, let's embrace life's challenges, celebrate its joys, and start living a more tenacious life.