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Whirlwind Weeks, Big Decisions & A New Chapter

The past few months have felt like a total whirlwind! Since exhibiting at the Chelsea Art Fair, I've taken a step back from social media to focus fully on my health — something I've needed to do for a long time. It's not always easy to press pause, but when your nightly seizures worsen and your energy dips, sometimes self-care has to take the front seat.

That said, I'm still doing what I can to speak up about disability rights — using my voice whenever I have the strength to do so.

Meanwhile, Giles has dropped down to a two-day workweek (except during school holidays — he's too kind to take up leave others with young families might need). Having him around more has been a real joy. It feels like a lovely preview of retirement… and let's be honest, having my very own personal chauffeur on call isn't too bad either!

April was full-on with hospital visits:

• A session with a neuropsychologist

• A consultation with neurosurgeon Professor Andrew McEvoy

• And an incredible Patient Insight Day in London, organised by Brain Buddy

That day was especially powerful — Giles and I were able to meet people who've had similar brain surgeries and hear from neurologists and professors about current techniques and research.

After a lot of thought (and a few deep breaths), I've decided to go ahead with the surgery. Once I said yes, we realised it would likely happen within three months — and suddenly it seemed mad to stay stuck in limbo waiting for a house sale to go through! So, we took the house off the market, and instead, we're adapting our current home — starting with turning our downstairs cloakroom into a proper shower room. Builders permitting, of course… still waiting on those quotes!

And because life's about balance — we booked ourselves a much-needed 10-day all-inclusive break at a resort we already know and love. If you're going to have one last holiday before a life-changing operation, better make it a good one, right?

So yes — big changes, big decisions, and (surprisingly for us!) we've actually been on the ball. Now, we just need the builders to catch up!

I'm back, full of hope, ready to pick up a brush again — and very excited about a new commission that's landed in my lap. Plus, there's a parcel from Jackson's Art Supplies on its way as I type… always a sign that things are looking up!

Thanks for sticking with me — more soon.
A x