Hi, I'm Kirsty, a mum in Wales with a big sense of humour and a stubborn streak. I live with multiple chronic illnesses that affect me physically, mentally and cognitively, so I've learned to pace myself. It's part of my life, not the whole story.

The next chapter I'm aiming for: more time with my family, a way of working that fits my life, and eventually a move to the Philippines. I'm looking for work that fits me, and I'd like some breathing room while I make that change. Any amount helps. If giving isn't possible right now, sharing this means just as much.

What the money is for, in order:

1. Helping with our living costs while I change how I work, so I can spend more time with my family.

2. Saving towards our move to the Philippines, looking after my grandparents, and buying my grandparents' house from them. It's my childhood home.

My first goal is £2,000. It's a first step, not the whole plan. Anything raised, including anything beyond the goal, goes only to these two things, in that order.

Who's responsible: me, Kirsty Townsend. The money goes to my own bank account through GoFundMe.

I'll post honest updates here, including what the money has added up to, and probably a meme or two. Thank you for being part of it.