My name is Cleo.

I am in the process of completing my degree in psychology.

The path that lead me to psychology was long, but worth it, and it all began with my perspective on life. I believe that the essence of life lies in our ability to serve one another, each in our unique capacity. This sentiment echoes the wisdom of Dr Myles Munroe, who suggested that discovering our purpose often involves identifying a deeply felt societal issue. For me, that issue has become painfully clear in the ineffective handling of mental health concerns within my family and the broader society. Having witnessed firsthand the repercussions of neglecting mental health, I am deeply aware of its profound impact on individuals and the broader community. It is a multifaceted issue, one that is coiled with various social challenges.

My personal experiences with mental health challenges, particularly those stemming from my relationship with my mother, played a significant role in my decision to pursue a career in psychology. My mother struggled with severe depression, which ultimately affected her ability to care for us. One day, she left our lives, without warning, and we did not hear from him again for nearly two decades. Her actions left a deep wound in me, yet I often find myself reflecting on the immense psychological anguish one must endure to leave behind four children and never look back. Over the years, she has made attempts to re-enter our lives, often expressing overwhelming shame and disappointment in the choices she made, choices she herself struggles to understand. There is an internal war that she fights when she ponders on the many years lost and the irreparable relationships that she has with us. While I have to cope with my own disappointments, there is great compassion and tenderness that I feel towards her. This life experience has taught me that humanity is severely scarred and that we all need some grace, because we all have what I refer to as a “heavy Cross to carry”.

I have been blessed to have extended family that have supported me throughout my life. But others are not as fortunate. Without firm support, such issues can not only perpetuate a cycle of mental health challenges within the family but also contributes to broader societal issues, as the cycle of unhealthy behaviours and attitudes continues. I have chosen to pursue a career in Clinical Psychology because it offers the opportunity to support individuals grappling with mental health disorders—those who are often misunderstood, marginalized, and rejected by society simply for thinking, feeling, or experiencing the world differently. The persistent lack of awareness and understanding surrounding mental health can leave individuals feeling isolated, not only from others but also from themselves. There is a profound loneliness in being surrounded by people who cannot comprehend your struggles, and an even deeper despair in not being able to make sense of your own internal experiences. It is for this reason that I aspire to become a source of understanding, comfort, and support for those whom few truly understand.

Please help me bring my aspirations to light. It would mean the world to me. My goal for this fundraiser is $8 700, which would be enough to cover the remaining tuition fees. Thank you, thank you, thank you!!