Pre amble– I’m writing this post from a wooden cabin deep in an English forest, I’ve got my husband, our dog and 2 very good friends for company along side a bubbly hot tub, crackling fire, mountain of food and a lot of wine. I/we needed this down time; some quiet, reflective space amongst nature and laughter. Perfect.

I’d internally committed to writing something because 2025 has felt a big year. As is traditional let’s go month by month

January

We kicked off the year being both cultural and supportive of our home town. A light projection show was set across our town centre buildings. Me, Rich and my parents had a good hour walking around, enjoying the novelty and spending money in local business’.

After a rough health episode in late 2024 I was booked to see a specialist cardiology service with a warning it might lead to discussion around heart transplant which was terrifying. Thankfully it was very much a deescalation situation and lifted a huge mental weight.

February

Recognising my community supported physio was becoming harder to access I set out to find a local private neuro physio as one was opening 20 mins away. S2 entered my rehab world, intelligent, enthusiastic and a great personality, he became my primary physio and good friend to boot.

I had a super rare night out with my dad, we have similar tastes; there was a theatre production of a dark horror play. We went early, had a couple of drinks and saw the show. It felt great to be out with my dad.

I had signed up to walk 90km over the month to raise funds for the headway Uk brain injury charity. I finished it early, walking over 90km and raising significant money.

March

Not much exciting to report. I was rapidly approaching being back in work for a year and remained as frustrated and sad as I was since day one.

April

I made contact with a disabled sports team (via lovely Jack at Sheffield Eagles foundation) and started practicing Physically Disabled Rugby League. Heading to my first practice incredibly nervous but being welcomed, surprised at how much I count do and quickly finding an interest.

May

I played a rugby tournaments as the spring had finally arrived.

A year back in work and I’d finally accepted this wasn’t working for me, it was breaking my heart to not work clinically. The focus had become what I couldn’t do, none of this helped me mentally.

June

June was great, I had lots of breaks. Me, Rich and the dog did a 4 night uk break in our favourite lodges, peaceful and relaxing. While there I’d seen a job opportunity which I followed up and made contact with a place that seemed a great fit.

I spent a week travelling European theme parks with two good friends. It was a great “solo” adventure and proved how much I can do.

July

I interviewed for the job I’d seen. Finding out on the same day I’d been successful. The promise of a fresh start, new challenge and environment gave me a huge boost.

I attended a huge social rugby event which was great fun, cementing my belief that I loved being on a team and the people.

A further post stroke health impact reared its head and remains mostly unresolved but a lingering issue, possibly for life.

August

Honestly, I can’t remember.

September

I finished my old job, it was surreal walking away from something I thought I’d do forever. But new job quickly filled my time and was such a good decision for me I never wallowed or looked back.

I attended a rugby end of season presentation night where I won player of the year, did a speech to a full venue, on the fly and was incredibly proud of myself.

Me and Rich attended a wedding which gave us chance to see family we don’t often see and celebrate.

October

I did my first new work semi social event. Mainly to show my face and integrate which worked well.

me, Rich, the dog and my parents also went away to our favourite seaside town for a long weekend. I managed to walk miles and while it was mostly ok, I did have a few mental spirals finding the business and noise a bit too much. One day I gave up and went to bed and had a cry; angry that everything felt difficult and embarrassed I couldn’t cope with a few days out.

Arthur (the orthotic) arrived in September, making a big difference to my walking which gave a physical and emotional boost.

November

Spent mostly working, rehabbing and trying to find that nice balance. I attended a multi day conference with my work, once again a “solo” trip but gave me some passion, knowledge and confidence alongside spending time with my new peers which was great.

December

Wasthe same as everyone’s, spent bouncing between Christmas based events. Finishing the year hidden in the forest all snuggly has been great though

Was 2025good?

Absolutely, I changed career (ish) to find peace and a better quality of life.

I found a sport

My bigger health issues remained stable though I did gain a new one to add.

Other things lingered in the background but slowly progressing which is reassuring.

I’d found a sport and a team.

2025 was the year I felt more ‘me’ I was passionate, relaxed, sporty, fun and loving. I have a good feeling for 2026 too.