My name is Catherine Pawson. Five years ago, my family’s life was turned upside down with a diagnosis of Young Onset Parkinson’s. Then earlier this year I received a new diagnosis of Stage 3 cervical cancer and have received a 6-week course of radiotherapy and chemotherapy, the outcome of which is still uncertain.

Anyone who knows me will know how fiercely independent I am. But with my health challenges, I’m learning to ask for, and receive help in so many forms. A wonderful community of friends and family has spontaneously shown up to support my family with meals, lifts to hospital, daily messages of support and love, and little surprise gifts that have brought sunshine to our lives. I’ve been moved to tears daily by the generosity I’ve been shown.

For months now, I’ve been nudged to set up this GoFundMe by several amazing friends, and I have resisted – because there are so many people around the world needing help right now and, on the whole, I consider my life to be pretty blessed with safety and love.

But with multiple health challenges now impacting each other, I’m calling for support for my family as I plan various treatments that will help me recover my energy and vitality. I haven’t been able to work much since February, and as a freelancer that means our family income has tumbled. In addition, the therapies cost money and although I’ve been lucky enough to receive numerous freebies, I need to continue to be able to access therapeutic support over the coming months.

A friend said to me this morning “If you can’t write a GoFundMe page for yourself, do it for your family.” That’s what finally got me to my keyboard to write this call for help. I have two bright energetic teenage daughters, whom I want to continue to support as they go through education, find their way in the world and live life to the full. My husband is doing a fantastic job supporting us as a family, but money is tight without my freelance income.

I’m a copywriter and digital marketer by trade. And this is the hardest thing I have ever written!

If you feel moved to donate anything, no matter how small, I and my family are immensely grateful. The funds will be used to support us over the next 6 months while I access treatments including sessions with a functional medicine practitioner, herbalism, reflexology, therapeutic massage and the necessary supplements required to steer me back into health.

Finally, if you’re still with me please know that I am grateful, no matter if you donate or not. I have a strong spiritual practice which underpins my daily life and brings me immense joy. I write from this place, and from the understanding that there is an abundance of love around each and every one of us that sustains us all. Thank you.