Dear friends and family,

Over the past few years I’ve been navigating some very difficult health challenges, both physically and mentally.

Next month I will be having a much-needed major surgery, with a recovery time likely to be several months, during which I won’t be able to work.

As a self-employed, single person, without sick pay or holiday pay, my ability to work has already been affected by my health and I’ve used up my small amount of savings just covering my basic living costs. Now I find myself heading into this recovery time without a financial safety net.

It feels vulnerable to share this, but the truth is - I need help to cover my rent and bills while I recover.

And if I’m honest, I would also love to be able to support my healing in a more holistic way — with some therapy and alternative treatments — so I can come back to my work, my singing, and my community with renewed strength.

Singing and community are at the heart of who I am. I believe in the power of song to bring people together, and I love being part of creating safe, kind, and inclusive spaces. And I feel honoured that many of my songs have been sung around fires, at births and funerals, at protests, and celebrations around the world.

The songs I write, the groups I lead, and the people I sing with are not just my work—they are my heart’s purpose. This is what I am called to do, and I want to give myself the time and support to heal fully so that I can return to sharing songs and weaving community from a place of health and balance.

Any contribution, however small, will make a meaningful difference to me. And if you’re not in a position to give financially, sharing this page with others would mean so much.

I will, of course, continue to share and sell my songs through my website — there are some new ones there too — which is another way to support me if that feels right.

Thank you for reading, for holding me in your thoughts, and for being part of my community.

With love and gratitude,

Emily