In 2009 I was diagnosed with leukaemia, a cancer in the blood. In that moment, everything in my life changed. I struggled to reach out to people around me. All I knew is that I didn't want to hurt my family, or transfer the pain I was feeling onto them in anyway.

Suddenly, through not knowing how to open up, I found myself feeling alone and incredibly vulnerable, until I put myself into an unknown environment where I met some amazing people who were experiencing the same problems.

Over the years, I have met many people who have experienced these feelings too. I found that talking and sharing stories became a vital coping mechanism. I was able to start the healing process once I understood the power in talking had.

We all deal with problems daily, life challenges can be hard and unforgiving even when big or small they can take their toll, and I believe support through talking is the biggest healer.

However, taking the first step requires a huge amount of bravery and support is not always readily available. Knowing how to start the conversation, even to family or friends, can be the toughest part – trust me, I’ve been there. 

It got me thinking, how can I help others?