Celebrating the Amazing Women in Our Lives #SheHelped // And Win a £100 John Lewis Voucher

21st March 2016

I am lucky enough to have a lot of wonderful women in my life. Growing up I was very close to my amazing Granny who was so inspiring and brilliant and I miss her every day. I always think how she would have been such an incredible role model to have in my life and someone to go to for support and just to chat.

I also have a fantastic mother-in-law, and a whole family of supportive and lovely women (and men too!) from my husband’s side and my own family, and I have so many wonderful female friends whom I adore.

But enough gushing, I’ve run out of adjectives. Canesten are currently running a campaign called #SheHelped, which is about promoting the small and big things that women do every day to help other women. It is about honouring women and celebrating the amazing women in our lives.

Canesten are committed to constantly finding new ways of supporting women to lead healthy, fulfilling lives and encouraging women to help each other, and share knowledge and advice.

Canesten help women around the world, especially those who are less fortunate than most of us. To help refugee women affected by the Middle East crisis who are living in sub-standard conditions in camps and settlements in various countries, Canesten offered a substantial donation of  Canesten products to International Health Partners (IHP). IHP is Europe’s largest charity coordinator that organises the safe and responsible donation of medical products and supplies to developing countries. You can help if you’d like to, by donating here.

To join in with this campaign, Canesten have asked me to write about an amazing woman in my life, who has helped me achieve my goals, and what that person means to me.

It was a very easy decision for who to write about for me. My mum has always, always been there for me. Obviously you would hope your mother would be, but my mum has always gone completely above and beyond with all of her support and love. She’s a wonderful person, and always puts everyone else before herself.

celebrating the amazing women in our lives #shehelped

If I need someone to talk to about something important, something unimportant, or just to vent about something – she is always there. She doesn’t live near me anymore (waaah!), and in fact we don’t talk as much as we used to, but I know I can always count on her to be there when I need anything and I know she loves me so much.

When I wrote my very personal post about depression recently, my mum read it in the morning, and then rushed to speak to me about it and to be there for me. I think I upset her quite a bit because she hadn’t known the extent of it, and I think she found it hard to understand why I hadn’t told her. But it was just because I didn’t want to talk about it, with anybody, and just found it easier to write about it. If I’d felt like talking about it then my mum would have been one of the first people I would have talked to. And I know she would have listened, offered support, and advice and been the amazing mum she is. So please don’t worry that I didn’t tell you mum 😉

A moment that always stands out to me was just after I’d had my daughter, a couple of days after she was born. I was obviously exhausted, emotional, had the worst heartburn in the history of the world so wasn’t eating, and was a bit overwhelmed. After the first initial breastfeed which was very easy, I couldn’t get my daughter to latch on properly at all. She hadn’t really had a proper feed for a couple of days and I was very upset because I didn’t want to use formula. My mum had been trying to support me and to help, without me feeling like she was trying to take over or tell me what to do. One day she suggested that I just grab my boob and shove it in my daughter’s mouth (sounds lovely, I know), and oh my god it worked. My newborn daughter finally had a decent amount of milk, and after that it got easier every time. I was so happy I cried; it was such a massive relief, and all because of my wonderful mum. We went on to have a long and lovely breastfeeding journey and I really think it’s because of my mum that that was possible. It was just one little piece of advice, but it changed everything, and I was and am so, so grateful to her.

Proud of our cocktail masterpieces!

My mum has always supported me through everything in my life, the happy times, and the horrible times, been ecstatic for me when I finally got pregnant, and devastated with me when I lost the baby. She is a wonderful Granny, always doing what she can to help and to give me a break, and is so great with Ava.

Apart from a few of my, ahem, more difficult teenage years, we have always got on really well, and don’t stop talking when we are together. We can also have a laugh together, and *may* have little swearing matches occasionally where we call each other the most inappropriate names we can think of. I think if I can say the c-word to my mum then she must be pretty cool.

I am so grateful to her for everything, and I hope she knows how much I appreciate her.

To celebrate the #SheHelped campaign and the small and big things that women do every day to help other women, Canesten have given me £100 of John Lewis vouchers to give away to one lucky reader!

All you have to do to enter is complete the Rafflecopter widget below, including a comment answering the question…

‘Do you have any stories about being helped or inspired by another amazing woman that you’d like to share?’

GOOD LUCK!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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This post has been supported by Canesten, but all thoughts are my own.

169 responses to “Celebrating the Amazing Women in Our Lives #SheHelped // And Win a £100 John Lewis Voucher”

  1. Tracey Peach says:

    My Mum on an every day basis 🙂

  2. Emily Davies says:

    I have an amazing friend, a house mate, who basically adopted me when I was a student and has ‘mothered’ me ever since. She has sewn me into my wedding dress, cried with me when I lost my babies, rejoiced with me when we had my daughter and is now said daughters god-mother. She is quite literally, an amazing supportive friend. Love her!

  3. Lindsey Stuart says:

    My granny who I was brought up with she was a lovely kind lady! Always giving me brilliant advice, she was the kindest person who would never have seen anyone stuck

    • Erica Von Stein says:

      My mum is my everything, she teaches me every single day, how to be a woman, a human being and how to gracefully face any struggle life throws at me.

  4. ashleigh allan says:

    My mum is my inspiration – she is always there for me and my family!

  5. Paula Readings says:

    My inspirational Nan was a diamond, she taught me to cook & how to get the most for your money.

  6. Jennifer Haden says:

    My friend really inspires me. She’s fighting a terrible condition that has left her completely disabled, but the way she fights on everyday and hangs on and know’s she’ll get better one day—that really fills me up so much, how strong and courageous she is x

  7. Tracy Nixon says:

    Years ago I decided to do a sponsored 10 mile walk to raise money for a local charity and because I wasn’t very fit at the time and the walk involved a lots of hills and styles, I almost gave up at 7 miles. But one old lady there persuaded me to keep going and she stayed with me for the remaining 3 miles. If it hadn’t been for her I wouldn’t have finished.

  8. Jo Hutchinson says:

    An amazing and inspiring woman in my life was my Grandmother even when she became ill, she had a smile and a joke to tell.

  9. Emma Ferguson says:

    My nan was my inspiration and had so much courage and knowledge

  10. claire griffiths says:

    my gran even when she became house bound she was still such a strong lady and did the best she could for everyone else

  11. jules eley says:

    My Nan was very inspirational, She arrived in Leamington Spa from Cork In ireland In the late 1940’s with nothing, she found work and a place to live and made many friends. An amazing lady who had 6 children with only 4 surviving and yet still she showed love affection and help to anyone who needed it. 🙂 A lovely woman I am proud to call my Nan 🙂

  12. My Mum, she is the hardest working woman I know and raised us three children on her own. Sometimes she had three jobs at once, all while we were at school. Though she worked a lot she was always there to take us to school and pick us up and I couldn’t have asked for a better Mother.

  13. The midwife I had when I went in to labour with my son. She was totally amazing and inspired me in ways I could never thank her enough for. I walked in to that hospital a scared 19year old and left a proud confident first time mum. She helped me through a lot during my labour and first few hours and inspired me to train as a midwife which I shall soon me starting! x

  14. Isabel O says:

    My mummy. She has helped me through anorexia when I was a teenager. I nearly died and she was there with me getting me the help I need. Even now she is helping me get through life. She is my defender against the world.

  15. Amanda tanner says:

    My mu. And sister always inspire me

  16. I’m really lucky – I have my mum and her best friend. I’m really close to my mum but I know if I ever felt myself unable to talk to her about something (highly unlikely), her best friend would be there to listen and help.

  17. Sarah prescott says:

    My mum constantly inspires me by always being cheerful, helpful and a wonderful friend.

  18. abigail edkins says:

    Not that I can think of…but I do live my life trying to be one of those people to my kids and step kids

  19. clair downham says:

    my grandmother god rest her soul was just the best

  20. Charlene Keddy says:

    My grandmother was a great inspiration – all the stories she told me about living through the great depression were amazing. It just proves how resourceful people can be! xx

  21. Francesca Jones says:

    Although I didn’t see them often my Grandma’s were very strong and determined ladies who I miss – RIP

  22. laura banks says:

    my mum always inspired me even when she was so ill she still tried to do everything the other mums did

  23. Bev says:

    A wonderful cancer nurse named Julie who gave me hope and laughter.

  24. Sinead ORourke says:

    My mum told me never give up on my dreams and now I am working my dream job.

  25. Harline Parkin says:

    I met a lovely retired head teacher from walking our dogs we became good friends I had a stroke and she took me to rehab every week for 18 months she has taught me how to live and love the out doors she is a knowledge of all living things and has taught me so much this made me get strong and learned me to love life like Ive never know now my eyes are open

  26. Ruth Harwood says:

    My grandmother was an amazing woman and taught me to value myself xx

  27. Simon Smith says:

    My sisters are very nice people…

  28. Nital says:

    Such a great post! It’s far to often I hear women putting other women down etc and it’s so great to celebrate them! My neighbour is great and always helps my mum. I also think Malala Yousafzai is amazing, she is doing so much to help others.

  29. Christine Beake says:

    My mum who is always there & helps me no end. I would go to the ends of the earth for her and she would for me. Now I am a mum myself it suddenly every thing she has done all makes sense

  30. GLENDA HANKS says:

    My mum inspired me to be the best person I can be, something I am encouraging my own children to also become; self belief is so important

  31. Julie Howarth says:

    My mum was my inspiration, lovely kind person, always offered great advice

  32. brenda heads says:

    a good friend of mine has always been there for me and I feel I can tell her anything without being judged and we all need that at times.

  33. Natalie Crossan says:

    My mum is an absolutely amazing woman.. she’s spent her life caring for others especially me, her daughter rand her beloved grand daughter 🙂 we wouldn’t cope without her x

  34. Nat thomason says:

    Five years ago I had a breakdown I suffer from bi- polar . My daughter came in to see me everyday for six weeks even cancelling her New Year’s Eve plans to sit with me . I can never forget her kindness x

  35. GEOFF WICKENS says:

    MY WIFE SUE WHO HAS STEPPED UP TO BECOME MY CARER AFTER BRAIN SURGERY

  36. Sara Goodman says:

    My sister is my rock. She always gives good advice & always makes me feel better.
    She lives in another country, which is hard, but fortunately she is always at the end of the phone!
    Super giveaway, thank you xx

  37. Theresa Parker says:

    My wee mum adopted me and my sister. Years ago I went through a period of drinking much too much and my mum stuck by me, even though people advised her to “let me go”.I’m now twelve years sober and have done well with my career as a teacher. It’s all down to mum. Love her so much!

  38. sharon martin says:

    My Gran always amazed me with get on with it attitude, it did her well as she reached her 101th birthday before she passed away.

  39. Lisa Rowsell says:

    One of my old primary school teachers who did so much for me, and does a lot for her local community.

  40. Anthony Harrington says:

    My late Mother-in-Law was a wonderful, brave and inspirational Lady, she was the most kind and sincere person, I miss her so very much.

  41. My mum is my hero, we have been through some tough times when my dad passed away, mum had to work on 3 different jobs so that we can be fed and dressed. I think she didnt do too bad and this inspires me to be a good person and mum as well

  42. Gemma Holland says:

    My Nan was my inspirational woman, she had a tough life but was always so resilient and upbeat. She died 5 months after I had my first child & I still miss & think about her often

  43. Sharon Jackson says:

    My mum, she’s my world, she done so much for me over the years, I love her so much 🙂

  44. My grandmother was a amazing women, she brought me up, looked after my children when i was ill and in work, done all the cooking and if she couldn’t do it herself she would go with out!..A strong woman who always had a strong will to live life to the full…And she gave me the strength i have to day to face the world..

  45. Deborah says:

    My mother in law who believed in me, made me do things to better myself and was always there for me

  46. Tony Metcalf says:

    My sister, bore her illness with great fortitude.

  47. Beky Austerberry says:

    Growing up I was inspired by Anne Frank…. I read her diary so many times & it helped me rationalise my teenage years. I have also been inspired by my grandma who has had some really horrible tough times yet still remains positive… think that’s who I get my positivity off!

  48. Hannah Smith says:

    My mum is my inspiration she managed to raise my brother and I whilst also having a great career!

  49. amanda walsh says:

    I help run a weekly coffee morning for parents/carers of autistic children. Its really important to inspire each other and feel like we aren’t so alone in a world that doesn’t alway understand our children.

  50. SO many people are talking about their mums, and mine is helpful and all that but the woman who inspires me most is by pest friend. She’s always up for helping me out, even when she lives in a different country and she always knows the right thing to say. Shes training to be a childrens nurse and is also one of 8 children, the oldest in fact! She’s just caring, loving and the best friend I could ask for!

  51. Monica Gilbert says:

    I have a few women friends with chronic illnesses. I’m amazed at their ability to remain optimistic in the face of debilitating pain. They remind me to not take anything for granted because it can all change in an instant.

  52. Julie Booth says:

    my A&E Consultant colleague at work- Dr Elizabeth Cheshire- her dad was Leonard Cheshire of Cheshire homes, and her mum was Sue Ryder. She qualified as a lawyer, yet works as an A&E consultant in a busy hospital, and is the calmest most gentlest lady I have come across. Vey unassuming, patient and kind

  53. aaron broad says:

    My mum always helps me, has brought me up by herself most of her life

  54. Sue C says:

    My sister is my closest friend and inspiration, I do not know what I would do without her and the support we give to each other (our mum is no longer with us) makes me able to cope with all parenthood throws this way!

  55. Greig spencer says:

    my mum inspires me as she is kind and caring and always puts others first

  56. Clare P says:

    What a lovely post! My sister is my biggest inspiration – I can’t imagine what I’d do without her, she looks after me and always puts me first. I’m very lucky and should probably tell her more often!

    Clare x

  57. Arielle says:

    brilliant blog! my mum and my best friend are my biggest inspirations!

  58. Layla Thomas says:

    My Grandmother is an inspiration. She’s 86, still lives on her own and is very independent. Mainly though she has been a wealth of information since I had children and she always has great suggestions and ideas for me.

  59. Stephanie Coals says:

    My mum who has always supported me even when i’ve made choices that she doesnt necessarily agree with – that unconditional love means everything.

  60. Tina Glover says:

    My mum is definitely an inspiration to me and she is the kindest person I know.

  61. Jodie W says:

    My mum is a big inspiration – she helped get me breastfeeding my son after leaving hospital giving formula and feeling devastated about it as i so wanted to breastfeed. she knew how to get it working for us.

  62. sarah fielding says:

    My mum is constantly helping and inspiring me!

  63. Shelley Jessup says:

    My Mother she has been through so much & always comes out of it stronger. This is year has been very hard for her but she’s always thinking of others & helping them.

  64. HELEN CLAYTON says:

    My best pal-a generation older is not only a friend but a straight talking, no nonsense and practical second mum. She’s been a constant in my at times, turbulent life for years, my wine buddy and partner in adventures! She’s been through life saving surgery recently yet remains the most strong and positive role model-a rare gem.

  65. Fab Prize x Entered x

  66. natasha hood says:

    My inspiration is my mum as even though she has lived with cancer for the last 5 year’s she has never taken a day off and continues to teach her students.

  67. Vicky Varley says:

    My amazing mam is always there for me, every day 🙂

  68. ann goody says:

    My amazing Mum has inspired me every day. Recently she has been ill and has fought bravely and stoically.

  69. Susan Clayton says:

    My 76 year young mom has fought against, and beaten vulval cancer after 2 years and 3 rounds of gruelling intimate surgery. No complaining, just a stoic attitude and she just got on with it. She’s incredible, and I’m proud to be her daughter xx

  70. Michelle Sykes says:

    My mum is very inspiring. She fostered over 100 children in 25 years. Taking them on holiday and helping all of them achieve their best. It gave me a love of children and I have gone on to have 4 of my own

  71. Kelly Hemmings says:

    My mum. She’s had so many illnesses including Manic depression and breast cancer which she beat in both cases. She just keeps going and is moving to Western Australia in May. I just don’t know how she does it.

  72. Jan Holden says:

    My sister who at 67 went to university and took her BA and MA. It just shows it is never too late to achieve your dream.

  73. Kay Panayi says:

    My mum – I had a truly traumatic labour with my youngest daughter to the point where I almost died from blood loss she was by the side theough the whole thing smiling even though it must of been hard for her

  74. Lucy Gar says:

    I’m very lucky to be able to say that my Mum has gone above and beyond her role. I have suffered from ill health for many yeas now. She has helped support me financially when necessary but moreover she’s supported me emotionally and pravtically. I’m very lucky to have her 😊

  75. helen newton says:

    My mum who shows me whatever life throws at you , you can overcome it , she has been through alot over the years but she has always kept a smile on her face and carried on , we lost my brother at the age of 14 to leukemia but through seeing my mums strength it has helped me , she works hard and is the life and soul of any party , I’m proud of my mum and love her dearly.

  76. kimberley ryan says:

    My mum inspires me, 3 major strokes and other health issues and she is the first person to volunteer to help with fund raising and helping other people

  77. Ema J Lowe says:

    my great nan, she used to be there when i needed her.

  78. Danielle.a says:

    All the ladies in my life inspire me but my mum is the best X

  79. Maria P says:

    My grandmother was a great baker and I learned a lot from her – now I really enjoy to bake with my daughter 🙂

  80. Marion Smith says:

    My Mum inspires me daily. She raised her kids by herself and did the best job ever. Everyone loves her and she really brings happiness to everyones day.

  81. Helen A says:

    My mum because nothing is ever too much trouble for anyone, and she never expects anything in return – although we do spoil her as much as we can!

  82. Kirsti Peters says:

    I have been inspired all of my adult life by my sister-in-law, well since she met and married my brother. She is a confident lady who worked and studied tirelessly to achieve her career in the brewing industry, years of study and uni courses mean’t that she was the first female brewer in the UK. She inspire me these day as 2 years ago this fab woman got the most devastating news, which was a diagnosis of MND/ALS (Motor Neurons Disease) he ongoing illness and the way she deals with all of her trouble and her broken body and especially how she puts on a brave face even though we all know that there is absolutely no hope for her. She remains still “Our Ann” Truly inspiring.

  83. Sheri Darby says:

    My mum always so calm and supportive

  84. Tracy says:

    Social media and blogs have introduced me to many inspirational women; triumphs, happy endings, loss, heartache. Some of these ladies I’ve never met and probably never will, but I’ll always remember them, their stories and their strength.

  85. Shirley Evans says:

    My Mother was my inspiration in everything.

  86. Bryanna M says:

    My mum and my grandmother have helped shape me who I am today and are two of the strongest women I know.

  87. Hazel Rea says:

    A teacher I had made me realize my potential when no-one else had and I went on to do an Honours Degree and a Masters by thesis.

  88. Nicki Simpson says:

    My best friend Joanne who is working an extremely stressful job, a fantastic parent to her 2 toddlers and who is also leading an emotional campaign ti release her innocent brother and his colleagues from a prison in India, her resilience and cheerfulness is both unbelievable and inspirational

  89. Jennifer Rhymer says:

    My mum had a near fatal heart attack 5 years ago, her heart stopped twice in the ambulance and she was told only 7% of people survive what she’s been through. She has recovered amazingly well and she’s inspired me to exercise and become fitter. She looks after her grandchildren everyday and I’m proud to call her my mum!

  90. SUNITA VERMA says:

    my mum taught me how to become selfless when you become a parent

  91. karen t says:

    My Aunt has had the most horrendous life, but yet still carries on and manages to hold it together. She has lost 3 of her 4 children, all suddenly and unexpectedly at different ages, two on the same day but 40 years apart. She has had leukemia, has had a cardiac arrest, has epilepsy and is now going blind but is never depressed and never wants to give up on life or others

  92. Sarah Rowland says:

    A lovely group of ladies who have become closer than life long friends

  93. Diane Wareing says:

    Like many, my mum was a huge inspiration to me. She worked hard and gave much of her time to charity by helping the blind. But my daughter has also been a huge inspiration as life has thrown her some awful cards and yet despite trauma and tragedy she never gives up and works extremely hard bringing her 2 girls up.

  94. Emma says:

    My mum is always there for me when I need her and can always cheer me up if I’m ever feeling down!

  95. My sister is amazing she look after me and my 6 brothers and sisters after we lost are mum. She thought of us all before herself, she is just the best.

  96. Victoria Prince says:

    My mum has both helped and inspired me 🙂 she has been a fantastic role model and such an inspiration to me, and when I turned out to be severely disabled and require a high level of care she has continued to do that uncomplainingly and so selflessly – she never puts herself first. Of course she isn’t perfect 🙂 but I couldn’t ask for a more wonderful, caring and inspirational mother

  97. Emma Walton says:

    My Mother was always an inspiration to me. She raised me as a single parent and worked very hard for low wages. She went without food so I could eat and I had a lot of respect for her. I passed on her teachings to my children and I hope she would be proud of me.

  98. Ian Campbell says:

    My mother and grandmother are my biggest inspirations. Two generations of women whose ideals and morals helped shape me into the person I am today. Their stoicism, warm natures, and sense of humour showed that life can tackled with positivity and verve, no matter the situation, with plenty of smiles and laughter along the way 🙂

  99. Linda Curtis says:

    my mother in law was the strongest women i know
    and taught me so much in the years we had together
    i could never thank her enough and miss her everyday x

  100. Samantha R says:

    My mum’s been through a lot recently but always manages to keep her head up and holds down a really senior, high pressured job. It gave me the motivation to carry on in the face of adversity.

  101. Daniela Eigner says:

    One of my best friends, she is 10 years older than me and has been giving me such wise and helpful advice through difficult times.

  102. Laura Pritchard says:

    I’m always inspired by my colleague, Gill. She works full time, always with a smile & a hug for anyone who needs it, whilst caring for her husband who has early-onset alzheimers, and an hormonal teenager!

  103. My friend had cervical cancer really young and inspiration us all to make sure that we book in for our smear tests

  104. sima halimi says:

    My mum is the remarkable lady I could not live without her !

  105. Claire Ward says:

    I would have to say my nan she was my best friend. She cared for me and was so strong she fought so hard to retain her independence until The very end

  106. Adrian Bold says:

    My Mums been through such a lot in these last few years. But even during some of her harder times, she’s always been there to support me through my own highs and lows.

  107. Diane Searle says:

    My mum raised me as a single parent from the age of 16 and although she had a good support network of my grandparents and my aunties/uncles and she done the most amazing job of raising me, I have seen first hand the struggles she went through to give me a good upbringing and also the prejudice she received as being a very young mum. Because of that she has inspired me to enjoy life and see the world before having children. It also made me realise that I wanted to be in a stable relationship before starting a family. I’m now at the age of 32, I’ve travelled to various destinations and I got married two years ago to my long term partner and it’s only now that I feel ready to start a family.

  108. Chris S says:

    My Grandmother has been the biggest inspiration in my life. She left school when she was 11 (in 1912) because of health problems. She went on to train as a dressmaker and designed and made the majority of her clothes. She worked her entire adult life making and altering clothes for a variety of people and continued to work until she was almost 80! She had such a positive attitude to life – right up until the very end when her life was taken by cancer at the age of 91. I still miss her but appreciate everything she did for me.

  109. Sue Lempkowski says:

    my new friends at my slimming world group , we have all been through our weight strggles but are wanting to achieve our goals

  110. Amanda Richardson says:

    My best friend who has always been there for me through the good and the bad times, is never judgemental and always great advice

  111. Monika Suchonska says:

    My mum – after being widowed twice already she is still a positive and bubbly person.

  112. charlotte thornton says:

    I have an amazing cousin, she is only 39 and has terminal cancer and has been fighting for her two babies for the past year. She is an inspiration to me!!

  113. Leeanne Clifford says:

    My late mother. She had breast cancer twice and taught me that scars don’t change who you are, you are still beautiful. I had a double mastectomy on the 23Rd of March – 10 days ago – and whenever I feel scared and insecure I think of her bravery and strength and it spurs me on

  114. Joanne Welsh says:

    My mum inspires me every day, she’s my best friend and the best person I know.

  115. Laura Corrall says:

    I have an amazing mother and some great friends, but something it’s the help and kind words of a stranger that can stay with you and inspire you for years. I will never forget the first time I was on a bus with my newborn. I breastfeed her just before going to the bus stop. Low and behold, the bus was late, naturally it was then packed. My daughter then started screaming for a feed. I was so panicked. I barely learnt how to breastfeed, let alone do it discreetly, or on a moving bus where I was standing holding onto the pram, what would people think if I feed her or indeed didn’t feed her. This lovely old lady could see I didn’t know what to do. Gave me her seat and had a chat with me. I will never forget she said ‘know one is ever certain in what they are doing because know one is perfect’.

  116. Zareen Choudhury says:

    My amazing sister and mum who are always there for me and have got me through the hardest times in my life. I owe them much more than i can ever give. #SHEHELPED #SuperWomen 😀

  117. My mum – shes been there for me through everything

  118. Cristín Williams says:

    My granny was a huge inspiration to me, she taught me so much

  119. Ayse says:

    It’s not a specific story but my big sister supports me in everything I do and I hope she feels i do that for her. X

  120. marie powell says:

    My two daughters who have grown up to be the light of my life, they are strong, kind and are the best mums I know, its funny that I now learn from them

  121. My Mum-in-Law was wonderful to me when I had my two, my own Mum had died some time before and she stepped up, came and stayed with me and looked after everything so I could look after my baby. She has never interfered but been there as a great support

  122. Dee Griffiths says:

    My daughter….every day is a battle but every day she survives with such positivity that she really inspires me

  123. Jill fairbank says:

    My sister she is a complete inspiration and many could learn from the strength she has

  124. Karen Foster says:

    My daughters have been a tower of strength for me through the worst time of my life. I don’t know how I could have coped without them.

  125. Karen Richards says:

    My aunty who sadly is no longer with us is my inspiration. Taught me to respect people from a young age, be polite and helpful to others and not to be so selfish. Think of others before myself.

  126. liz ferguson says:

    My Mam who is kind and thoughtful to everyone x

  127. Petra Hora says:

    My mum is my inspiration.

  128. Anna Brown says:

    My friend she is always there for anyone who needs her, for a shoulder to cry on or advice. Even though she goes through so many difficult situations herself she always makes time to see her friends and has a smile on her face. She is a true friend and inspiration to everyone who knows her.

  129. lia sturman says:

    my mum as she brought four children up on her own xx

  130. Charlotte Moore says:

    I have an amazing best friend in my life who is going through a lot. She has taught me to be thankful for every day and to make the most of all experiences

  131. sue mcdermott says:

    my Mum, she still goes jogging & she’s going to be 80 this year

  132. Melanie Burton says:

    My good friend Helena is an inspiration. She is wheelchair bound and in constant pain, but has such an amazing personality and us always upbeat and laughing! She is the life and soul!

  133. Dale Dow says:

    It has to be my Mum, she is a strong woman! When my Dad died in September, even though she was struggling to come to terms with it herself, she became my rock! She took my sisters kids in when my sister died even though she was at the age where life should become easier, just an amazing woman

  134. Pauline Dring says:

    Our Queen is an inspiration to me, she works so hard for the good of our country.

  135. Lisa Lewis says:

    my mum, she battled aggressive breast cancer for 18 months, she had chemo, mastectomy and radiotherapy, she never complained once no matter how ill or in pain she was and she always had a smile on her face. she lost her battle last year but she showed me how strong and brave she was. I’m so proud to have had her for my mum x

  136. Dawn F says:

    My mum in law is the best and she is an inspiration to me. I feel loved and happy whenever I am around her.

  137. cheryl hadfield says:

    My mum is an amazing women, she has been a carer for my dad for over 30yrs since he had a blood clot to the brain which left him with epilepsy. He now also suffers from vascular dementia. She has worked so hard to provide for all our family running her own business at the same time as caring for my dad and me and my sister..she is one in a million.

  138. Lydia Houghton says:

    My mum is my absolute hero. Recently retired, my mum has spent thirty years working as a home-care worker for sick, elderly and vulnerable people, enabling them to remain in their own homes and providing them with love, care and a friendly smile, even in the most difficult circumstances. It is horrible to think that one day I might need a carer, but if I do, I sincerely hope it is someone as kind and gentle as my mum.

  139. Kerry W says:

    My Sister In Law. I think she is amazing. She has had so many knocks in her life and she always picks herself up and gets on. She lost both her parents within 6 months of each other and she became the head of the family, and she kept everyone together, even if they all seemed to be falling apart! I don’t know how she stays so strong, but she does. Her kid is in hospital at the moment and she is still managing to hold it all together for her other 3 kids and the rest of the family. I don’t know what we would do without her!

  140. Nicola Dow says:

    My mums best friend is amazing. I dont live close to my mum so after she was diagnosed with huntingtons disease she stepped up and made sure she had the best care and is always there for her as I cant be. x

  141. Joanne Blackmore says:

    My mother is an amazing woman, always thinking of others before herself, and always there in times of need. She taught me everything I know and how to be a loving, caring, compassionate person which I will always be grateful for, she showed me the meaning of love and how to treat others how I would like to be treated. She truly is one of a kind and an inspiration to all…..

  142. Katie leavy says:

    My mum is e strongest person I know she hasn’t had much luck in her life but still managed to raise 3 kids single handed always putting everyone else before herself growing up she was there for all the tears always listened while I had a rant about university stress and still lends an ear today when I’m confused about what career path to follow and offers advice whatever life brings I’m confident she’s always going to be by my side

  143. esme mccrubb says:

    my friend who is recovering from breast cancer inspires me everyday – her love for life and her determination to kick the cancers butt makes me want to be just like her

  144. Erica Price says:

    A cousin bringing up their grandchild

  145. Pia Stephens says:

    My Mum and my aunty, they’re always there and helping in a heartbeat even now when we live in different countries x

  146. Lisa Mcalley says:

    Hmm being a single mum of four who has had no help and no night off from parenting for over 13yrs i would have to say i am my own inspiration

  147. kate m jones says:

    Well it would have to be a very good friend of mine, we’ve been close since secondary school so 25 years (gosh that’s a long time…..i’m so old!)
    She has a debilitating Auto-Immune disease and has suffered all her life.
    She is half a bionic woman by now(all new hips & knees! And nothing, and i mean nothing stops her from enjoying life, doing all the things that ‘normal’ people do, like whilst growing up we did everything like have part time work, have hobbies, boyfriends and nights out etc.

    She really is an inspiration to us all, and i am extremely proud of her and thankful to be her friend 🙂

  148. Kay Broomfield says:

    My mum for all she did for me growing up and all she does for my children now.

  149. Jan says:

    My daughter – she is fun, crazy, adventurous, passionate, spiritual, determined and talented. I wish I’d been like her when I was her age!

  150. Maria Hackett says:

    I had an emergency C section 4 months ago so my mum moved in with me to look after my twin babies. I could hardly get up. she was doing everything at home. cooking, cleaning, washing up, feeding babies, even at night time she wakes up 4 times to feed babies I dodnt know how she does it. she has never complained and she never expect anything in return. The love she has for my children is unbelievable and incomparable. SO lucky to have her and don’t know what I would do without her. she showed me the true meaning of MUM!

  151. Hoppo says:

    My mum was truly inspirational, even though she had cancer it didn’t get her down. She was always happy and taught me how to cook and look after the family. Sadly she passed away when I was just 8. I have a passion for cooking thanks to my mum.

  152. Kim W says:

    I don’t. I think every woman tries to help out others when they can, especially if they’ve had children as they understand the pressures more. Families aren’t always close nearby like in olden days so more help is needed from friends.

  153. Katie says:

    The only one that stands out wasn’t a family member but my form teacher in senior school. I was in year 8 and Dad was long gone. My Mum went off the rails a bit and I was left to care for my younger Brother and Sister. A lot of the time I didn’t have money for food/bus fare, was scruffy, late for school etc This teacher realised and would give me food, lifts home, lifts in in the morning. Made sure Brother and Sister were OK too. Give me odd bits like toothpaste, washing powder, would sometimes do a grocery shop for us so we had food in. She went above and beyond. As well as being a form teacher she also taught English and to this day I believe it’s no coincidence that my only two A*s at GCSE was English. I went on to study English Literature at Uni and have always thoroughly enjoyed the subject (VERY odd for me as I’m not academic at all really). I often think about getting in touch with her to say thank you, but really, what do I say? Thank you is no where near enough really, so I end up not bothering. I do try to pay it forward though, will always donate the food bank when I see them in Tesco and regularly donate to Children’s charities.

  154. Tania Partington says:

    My Mum and My Gran! Every single day they get on with shopping, housework and both take amazing care of me as I have a disability! I require someone to be with me at all times and both my mum and gran take the time out to be with me and take me to all my hospital appointments and make sure that I am comfortable! Both amazing ladies!!

  155. Keri Jones says:

    My Gran helped to raise me after my mum left. She was amazing, supportive, nurturing and so much more. She worked at my school now & again & all the kids used to call her Gran- some still called her Gran when they were 25 🙂

  156. Cerys John says:

    My Mum has inspired me throughout my life. Our Dad died when I was 17 and she has been so strong and independent since.

  157. claire blaney says:

    My mother in law has inspired me with her strength after losing her husband in 96 then on of her son’s in 99 she found the strength to carry on buy a home & even re marry but then it struck again in 2013 witht he lose of her second husband but agin she has found the strength to go on. she has inspired me more than anyone every will

  158. Sue Harrison says:

    My friend, in a wheelchair and now totally dependent on her husband and carers, still has a smile for everyone that will light up a room

  159. Rennene Hartland says:

    My friend who is battling cancer for the second time however its incurable this time aroun, she’s still fighting strong and living every day to the full a real insperation

  160. Sara Owen says:

    Mines is my mum she’s the strongest woman I know and still always there for me and my brother xxx

  161. Laura Haines says:

    When I worked in the Magistrates Court as a Domestic Violence Advocate a few years ago, I supported many women through the prosecution/trial process. There were many whose stories stayed with me, but there was one woman in particular who I credit making me the support worker and Person I am today. She had suffered mentally, physically and sexually at the hands of her abuser, her husband of 27 years. I met with her many times during the months of waiting for the trial to go ahead, and also met with her adult daughters who had witnessed the abuse throughout their lives. The torment and horror of her situation has always stayed with me; the many disgusting, abhorrent and violent acts he subjected her to. And although supporting her was emotionally draining at times, she showed me how strong survivors of Domestic Abuse can be – she and her daughters showed me the strength that love can have (both negative and positive at times). I may have taught her how the court system worked, but she taught me something far more important – that no matter how long it takes, or how much courage has to be summoned, everyone CAN make that change and move on in their lives no matter how hard it may seem. She taught me the courage and strength of Spirit.

  162. Jacqueline Roberts says:

    My Mum who I miss very much

  163. mandy austin says:

    my mam was my insperation in more ways than one, when she developed cancer not once did she feel sorry for herself, she always worried about us children and never herself, she was a unique lady who i was proud to call my mam x

  164. Lisa Mauchline says:

    My Mum, she always tells me what’s meant to be will be

  165. Leanne Bell says:

    I have a group of Mummy friends who I met in a forum. I began speaking to them after I had a miscarriage and they have been an absolute tower of strength for the past 3 years x

  166. My Mum helps and inspires me every single day just by being her! 🙂

  167. tracy sinclair says:

    I would say my Mum, I can never remember her not working, even though she had us four kids to raise, my Dad used to work away during the week, so she was almost a single parent, then when we all left home she went to college to become a qualified Chef then enjoyed many more years doing that before retiring at the age of 72, wish I could do half the things she has x

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