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How Difficult Is It To Self Care When You Have Lived Through Trauma

Brown & Cream Image Depicting Mental Health Awareness Text On Typewriter Paper. Image Created by PhotoFunia.com
Brown & Cream Image Depicting Mental Health Awareness Text On Typewriter Paper. Image Created by PhotoFunia.com Category Vintage Typewriter


The Challenge of Self-Care After Trauma

Self-care is a vital aspect of maintaining mental and physical well-being. It involves activities and practices that we engage in regularly to reduce stress, enhance our health, and restore our balance. However, for individuals who have lived through trauma, self-care can present a unique and profound challenge. Trauma fundamentally alters one’s perception of safety, self-worth, and control, making the path to effective self-care both arduous and complex.

Understanding Trauma

Trauma results from events or experiences that overwhelm an individual’s ability to cope, often leaving them feeling helpless and emotionally shattered. These experiences can range from physical or sexual abuse, accidents, and natural disasters to chronic emotional neglect or exposure to violence. The impact of trauma is multifaceted, affecting the mind, body, and spirit.

The Impact of Trauma on Self-Care

  1. Altered Self-Perception: Trauma often distorts self-perception. Survivors may struggle with feelings of worthlessness, shame, and guilt. These negative self-beliefs can create barriers to self-care. Activities meant to nurture and heal can be perceived as undeserved luxuries rather than necessities.
  2. Hypervigilance and Anxiety: Hypervigilance is a common aftermath of trauma, where the individual is in a constant state of alertness to potential threats. This heightened state of anxiety can make it difficult to relax and engage in self-care practices that require calm and mindfulness, such as meditation or deep-breathing exercises.
  3. Physical Symptoms: Trauma often manifests physically. Survivors may experience chronic pain, fatigue, and other somatic symptoms that complicate the practice of self-care. Exercise, which is a common self-care activity, may feel insurmountable due to physical limitations or fear of re-experiencing trauma through bodily sensations.
  4. Emotional Numbing: To cope with overwhelming emotions, trauma survivors might detach from their feelings, leading to emotional numbing. This disconnection can make it challenging to identify and pursue self-care activities that genuinely address their needs, as they might not feel in touch with what those needs are.
  5. Trust Issues: Trauma often shatters trust in others and in oneself. This mistrust can extend to the self-care process. Survivors might doubt their ability to care for themselves or mistrust the efficacy of self-care practices. Engaging in activities that require vulnerability, such as therapy or group support, can be particularly daunting.

Strategies for Self-Care After Trauma

Despite these challenges, trauma survivors can engage in effective self-care.

Here are some strategies that can help:

  1. Start Small: Begin with small, manageable self-care activities. This could be as simple as taking a few minutes each day to breathe deeply, enjoying a cup of tea, or spending time in nature. Small steps can gradually build a foundation for more comprehensive self-care practices.
  2. Seek Professional Help: Therapy with a trauma-informed professional can provide essential support. Therapists can help survivors develop coping strategies, process traumatic memories, and build a self-care routine tailored to their unique needs.
  3. Practice Mindfulness: Mindfulness can help trauma survivors reconnect with their bodies and emotions in a safe and controlled manner. Techniques such as mindfulness meditation, yoga, or progressive muscle relaxation can foster a sense of peace and grounding.
  4. Establish a Routine: Creating a consistent daily routine can provide a sense of predictability and control. Routine activities, like regular sleep patterns, healthy eating, and scheduled exercise, can help stabilize the body and mind.
  5. Connect with Others: Building a support network is crucial. This can include trusted friends, family, or support groups. Connecting with others who understand and validate one’s experiences can reduce feelings of isolation and provide emotional support.
  6. Prioritize Physical Health: Attending to physical health by seeking medical care, maintaining a balanced diet, and engaging in gentle physical activities can alleviate some of the physical symptoms associated with trauma.

Turning Trauma into Triumph: High-Profile Individuals Raising Awareness Through Their Stories

Trauma can be an isolating experience, but when high-profile individuals share their stories, they can break the silence and stigma that often surrounds it. By turning their personal pain into a public platform, these individuals not only foster awareness but also empower others to seek help and understand the signs of trauma. Here are some high-profile people who have courageously shared their stories and used their trauma to advocate for change.

1. Oprah Winfrey

Oprah Winfrey, one of the most influential media personalities in the world, has been open about her traumatic childhood, which included severe poverty and sexual abuse. Winfrey’s candid discussions about her past have been pivotal in her advocacy work. She has used her platform to shed light on the prevalence of child abuse and the long-term impacts of trauma. Through her television shows, interviews, and philanthropic efforts, she has provided a voice for survivors and emphasized the importance of mental health care and support systems. Oprah Winfrey tearfully recounts traumatic childhood moment | The Independent

2. Lady Gaga

Lady Gaga has been vocal about her experiences with sexual assault and PTSD. In numerous interviews and public appearances, she has shared her journey to healing, aiming to destigmatize mental health issues and advocate for survivors of sexual violence. Gaga co-founded the Born This Way Foundation, which focuses on promoting mental wellness, empowering youth, and creating a kinder world. Her openness has inspired many to seek help and understand that recovery is possible. Lady Gaga had a ‘psychotic break’ after sexual assault left her pregnant – BBC News

3. Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson

Dwayne Johnson has discussed his battles with depression following a series of traumatic events in his life, including his mother’s suicide attempt and his struggles with achieving his career goals. By sharing his story, Johnson aims to normalize conversations about mental health, especially among men, who often face societal pressure to remain stoic. His transparency has encouraged others to acknowledge their struggles and seek the support they need. Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson discusses his battle with depression, mental-health issues – CBSSports.com

4. Prince Harry

Prince Harry has spoken openly about the emotional toll of losing his mother, Princess Diana, at a young age and the subsequent mental health challenges he faced. Together with his wife, Meghan Markle, he has advocated for mental health awareness through various platforms, including the launch of their foundation, Archewell. Harry’s candidness about his own therapy and mental health struggles has contributed significantly to breaking down the stigma associated with seeking help. Prince Harry Talks Therapy and Trauma in New Mental Health Series (people.com)

5. Selena Gomez

Selena Gomez has used her platform to discuss her experiences with anxiety, depression, and her diagnosis of lupus, an autoimmune disease that has significant physical and emotional impacts. Gomez has produced documentaries and given interviews highlighting her journey to mental wellness. She co-founded the Rare Impact Fund, aiming to raise $100 million for mental health services in underserved communities. Her advocacy emphasizes the importance of mental health care and encourages young people to prioritize their well-being. Selena Gomez: Anxiety and depression led to one of the scariest times in my life (today.com)

6. Terry Crews

Terry Crews has been a vocal advocate for survivors of sexual assault, sharing his own experience of being assaulted by a Hollywood executive. His testimony during the #MeToo movement was a powerful example of how trauma affects men and the importance of speaking out against abuse. Crews has used his story to advocate for a cultural shift in how we view and address sexual violence, emphasizing the need for support and systemic change. Terry Crews names alleged sexual assaulter: ‘I will not be shamed’ – ABC News (go.com)

7. Katie Piper

Katie Piper is a British author, activist, and television presenter known for her extraordinary resilience and advocacy following a life-altering acid attack in 2008. The attack, orchestrated by her ex-boyfriend, left her with severe burns and lasting physical and emotional scars. Despite enduring over 250 surgeries and facing immense psychological challenges, Piper has emerged as a powerful advocate for burn victims and trauma survivors. Through her foundation, public speaking, and media presence, including the poignant documentary “Katie: My Beautiful Face,” she has raised significant awareness about the impacts of acid attacks and the importance of resilience and recovery. Piper’s story is a testament to the human spirit’s capacity for healing and empowerment in the face of unimaginable adversity. Katie Piper says women can experience ‘huge amounts of guilt’ about self-care (msn.com)

8. Renata Barnes

Renata Barnes The editor of Disabled Entrepreneur and Disability UK has faced profound trauma, enduring the loss of both parents and siblings, racism, and sexual assault, as well as domestic violence survivor, while also managing severe disabilities (OCD, Cerebellar Atrophy, Dysphagia & Rheumatoid Arthritis) resulting in from multiple health complications. These experiences have profoundly shaped her perspective and fueled her commitment to advocacy and support for the disabled community. Despite the immense emotional and physical challenges, she continues to recover each day through a combination of medication and self-help therapy, a strong support network, and a relentless dedication to her work. Her journey of resilience and recovery is reflected in her editorial mission, which seeks to empower disabled individuals and highlight the importance of mental health and well-being in overcoming personal adversities. Renata’s Story: Obsession To Liberation (msn.com)

Conclusion

These high-profile individuals have turned their traumatic experiences into powerful tools for advocacy and change. By sharing their stories, they have raised awareness about the various forms of trauma, its impact, and the importance of mental health care. Their transparency has not only helped to destigmatize discussions around trauma and mental health but has also provided hope and support to countless others who may be struggling in silence. Their journeys remind us that while trauma can be a deeply personal and painful experience, it can also be a catalyst for positive change and empowerment. Self-care after trauma is undeniably difficult, requiring patience, resilience, and often professional support. The journey is deeply personal and may involve setbacks and challenges. However, with persistence and the right strategies, trauma survivors can gradually reclaim their sense of self and learn to nurture their well-being. Embracing self-care is not just about surviving; it’s about thriving and finding a path to a healthier, more balanced life.


Renata’s Story: Obsession To Liberation

Brown & Cream Image depicting wording typed on a typewriter with the words 'Renata's Online Journal'. Image Credit: PhotoFunia.com Category Vintage Typewriter.
Image Description: Brown & Cream Image depicting wording typed on a typewriter with the words ‘Renata’s Online Journal’. Image Credit: PhotoFunia.com Category: Vintage Typewriter.


DISCLAIMER

Trigger Warning: The content on this page includes material that may be distressing to some readers. Topics discussed may include sensitive issues such as trauma, violence, and other potentially triggering subjects. Reader discretion is advised. If you feel that you may be affected by these topics, please consider whether or not you wish to continue reading.

Additionally, some names have been changed to protect the true identities of the individuals involved.


This Is A True & Inspiring Story Of Renata a Disabled Entrepreneur, Editor, Published Author, OCD Sufferer & Caregiver

Renata MB Selfie
Renata M. Barnes Editor
(iRenata.com)

Celebrating Resilience: Navigating Life’s Challenges, overshadowed by the weight of adversity, Renata – The Editor of Disabled Entrepreneur – Disability UK Online Journal shines as a beacon of resilience and adaptation. Renata, an individual struggling with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and Cerebellar Atrophy, refused to let her condition define her. Instead, she forged a path to success as a businesswoman, author, and caregiver, demonstrating the transformative power of determination and innovation.

Renata’s journey began amidst the relentless grip of OCD, which cast even the simplest tasks as monumental challenges. Yet, rather than succumbing to despair, she harnessed her condition as a catalyst for growth. She cultivated meticulous attention to detail that would later propel her toward unparalleled achievements.

Renata’s journey has been marked by profound challenges and resilience. As a woman born in the UK to Polish immigrants, she has navigated the turbulent waters of discrimination racism, grief, and depression, encountering barriers that sought to confine her potential. Moreover, Renata is a survivor of domestic violence, battling not only the physical scars but also the psychological wounds inflicted by her abuser. Amidst the darkness, she found solace and strength in her entrepreneurial spirit.

Creating DisabledEntrepreneur.uk and DisabilityUK.co.uk initially as a form of self-help therapy, Renata transformed her pain into purpose, empowering herself and others. What began as a personal endeavor has blossomed into a beacon of hope and support for countless individuals. 

DisabledEntrepreneur.uk stands not only as a testament to Renata’s resilience but also as a vital community resource hub, providing information, solidarity, and empowerment to those facing similar challenges. Renata’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of resilience and the human spirit’s capacity to rise above adversity.

Renata a retired model and photographer is now a published author and the owner and editor of multiple websites and offers a range of services for startups and disabled entrepreneurs. Renata is an expert in her field with over 30 years of experience. Renata’s services include Digital Marketing – SEO – Website Design – Content Writing – Video Creation – Graphic Design – Social Media Management.


Disabled Entrepreneur Business Card.

As Renata navigated the complexities of life’s challenges, she refused to be confined by the limitations imposed by her disabilities, OCD, Cerebellar AtrophyRheumatoid Arthritis & Dysphagia. She researched her conditions and adapted her life around her disabilities. Drawing upon her obsession with germs contamination, she developed a site to spread awareness about her illness (ocd.cymru) and campaign for mental health, disability discrimination, and human rights.

But her ambitions extended beyond the realm of entrepreneurship. With a keyboard at her fingertips, she is chronicling her journey. Her candid account of living with OCD hopefully will strike a chord with many, offering solace and inspiration to those struggling with similar mental health challenges.

Despite her professional success, she was also drawn to caregiving. When her daughter was struck ill, she saw an opportunity to make a tangible difference in someone’s life. However, she recognized the need to establish clear boundaries to safeguard her well-being.

She approached caregiving with the same precision that defined her other endeavors. She understood the importance of maintaining her mental health while tending to the needs of others. When physical contact was necessary, she donned PPE clothing and disposable latex gloves, ensuring a barrier between herself and potential germs.

While some may view her precautions as excessive, they were instrumental in preserving her mental health and enabling her to fulfill her caregiving duties effectively. In the confines of her home, she navigated interactions with her daughter with grace and compassion.

Remarkably, her obsession with germ contamination proved to be a boon in her caregiving role. Her meticulous hygiene practices not only protect her but also safeguarded her immunosuppressed daughter from potentially harmful germs, such as listeriaHer vigilance served as a shield against illness, highlighting the invaluable role she played in preserving her daughter’s health.

Renata demonstrated an innate entrepreneurial spirit. She founded her own business, a marketing company specializing in content writing, digital marketing, website design, and lead generation. Through her keen editorial eye and passion for storytelling, Renata transformed her company into a beacon of inspiration for aspiring writers and readers alike.

But Renata’s ambitions did not stop there. Fueled by her insatiable curiosity and desire to effect positive change, she pursued a career as an editor, shaping the narratives of countless authors and amplifying voices that might otherwise go unheard. Her dedication to her craft earned her widespread acclaim within the health, literary community, and business world, establishing her as a formidable force in business.

As Renata’s journey continues to unfold, she remains steadfast in her commitment to making a difference in the world. With a burning passion for social justice and a desire to advocate for the rights of the marginalized, she is preparing to embark on a new chapter in her life – studying human rights law. Through her studies, Renata hopes to gain the knowledge and skills necessary to effect systemic change and promote equality and justice for all. https://disabledentrepreneur.uk/skills-you-need-to-become-a-solicitor-in-the-uk/

Renata’s story serves as a powerful reminder that adversity can be overcome and that with perseverance, determination, and a steadfast belief in oneself, anything is possible. As she continues to pursue her dreams and make her mark on the world, Renata inspires us all to embrace our passions, follow our hearts, and never stop striving for a better tomorrow.

Entrepreneurship to Advocacy – Standing Strong Against Discrimination and Championing Change”

In the face of disability discrimination, direct prejudice, racism, and ableism, Renata stands as a beacon of resilience and determination. Throughout her journey, she has encountered obstacles and challenges, yet she remains unfazed, and unwavering in her commitment to stand up for the rights of both her nation and herself. Despite facing discrimination and racism firsthand, Renata refuses to be silenced. Instead, she uses her experiences to fuel her advocacy efforts, speaking out against injustice and fighting for reform and change. As she continues on her path, Renata remains dedicated to challenging systemic discrimination and promoting equality and justice for all. Her journey serves as an inspiration to others, encouraging them to stand tall in the face of adversity and never waver in their pursuit of a better world. Renata’s legacy will be one of resilience, courage, and unwavering determination in the face of discrimination, leaving an indelible mark on the world and inspiring generations to come.

Renata’s past history and disabilities do not define her and are simply stepping stones to her journey. Renata is in the midst of writing her autobiography, which she hopes to publish this year.

Renata has been diagnosed with:

  • Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
  • Cerebellar Atrophy
  • Dysphagia (Trouble swallowing)
  • Rheumatoid Arthritis

The True Story Renata, A Disabled Entrepreneur With OCD.

This story is an introduction bite-size teaser based on true events.

In a world where fear reigned supreme, Renata’s life was a constant battle against the invisible chains of OCD. Born into a home ruled by an obsessive fear of germs, her childhood was one of isolation and strict routines. Yet, this was only the beginning. Heartbreak, betrayal, and unimaginable trauma would follow her into adulthood, threatening to crush her spirit. But Renata was not one to be defeated. With resilience and determination, she transformed her darkest moments into a beacon of hope, rising from the ashes of her past to become a successful entrepreneur and a bestselling author. This is her story—a testament to the unyielding strength of the human spirit and the power of turning pain into purpose.



Obsession to Liberation Book Cover for Autobiography. Renata's Story.

Introduction:

Renata’s business experience includes commercial and fashion photography, photo editing, graphic design, digital marketing, advertising, SEO, website design, business development, consultation, lead generation, and social media management.

Renata is also a published author and is due to study law in October 2024 at Open University. Renata won’t let anything stop her from achieving her goals and her past and disabilities do not define her but make her stronger and more determined. For all the people who have hurt her or tried to harm her, she has forgiven them and has turned to God to ask for forgiveness. Understandably she has blocked the people that she does not want in her life including their family, friends, and acquaintances. She has blocked all negativity out of her life and only allows people to phone her who know her WhatsApp number or are in her favorites list. All communication to do with business is done via chat or email.

Renata’s Life Experiences: Racism, Discrimination, Humiliation, Emotional Distress, Grief, a Road Traffic Accident (RTA), Freak Accident to her Leg at Work, Physical and Mental Abuse, and Sexual Assault.

Renata’s Therapy, She has had CBT, ERP, and Medication and is now doing self-help therapy (Keeping Busy, Journaling, Article Writing, and Dabbling in Art Therapy ) and prescribed meds. Renata built the “Disabled Entrepreneur Disability UK” website as a tool, to learn, connect, teach, inspire, and empower other people. Renata has worked meticulously hard to build a platform where people can learn or simply hang out. The site has an abundance of useful resources and tools.



Born in Shrewsbury Shropshire to Polish immigrants and the firstborn, going to unfamiliar territory (school) at the tender age of five and not being able to speak the English language was frightening for a child who did not understand why her father had walked her to school and then left her there.

At the age of 5.

She did not know anyone and everything was scary. She remembers running home from school, crossing a busy main road by herself during school hours, and sprinting as fast as her legs could carry her. The following day her father dragged her to school as she screamed, making a scene not keen on wanting to go back. She remembered a few things in the school as she was pushed by the kids and spat on outside the school gates. She also remembered the time she was pushed down some steps in the playground face planting herself on the gravel. Another incident was when she was swinging on the apparatus and caught the corner of her eye from a sharp piece of metal protruding from the edge causing her to bleed, luckily for her, it was the corner of her eyelid and not her eye.

She also remembers the kids making fun of her and nobody wanted to play. She recalls the kids making her rub out the classroom number on a chalkboard only to get into trouble with the teacher. She also remembers in the main hall a teacher waving a watch in front of all the children and putting her arm up as she thought her teacher was giving away the watch only to be reprimanded the following day by the headteacher for stealing. To this day she does not know how her mother never noticed the watch in her blazer pocket that she checked each day for dirt. Renata believes her OCD is genetic as her mother had OCD, and so did her Grandmother as well as her Uncle, who would lay his handkerchief on a chair before sitting down.

She remembers the house she lived in and the regular visits from her godmother Kristina and her husband Sławek who was Renata’s godfather. She remembers her godmother buying a dress from the catalog in purple velvet with a gold satin bow. She remembers the parties her parents would have at Christmas and on Birthdays. She remembers her eldest brother’s 1st birthday as he sat in his pram.

She also remembered visiting her family in Poland on her mother’s side where she ate Pierogi (a traditional Polish dish of potato and cheese dumplings) the house was split in two and shared with her grandmother and grandfather living in one part and the other with their daughter’s family, husband and children. She also remembers the dog chained to the barn called Sasek.

As the years went on, her aunt in Poland recalled a time they were in the poppy fields and when her aunt was not looking Renata sipped the sap (opium) from the poppy buds consequently sleeping solidly for two days. Her aunt never told her sister, thus Renata’s mother never knew what had happened.

Renata lived her early years in a small, meticulously clean home. Her mother, consumed by an intense fear of germs, imposed strict rules that forbade friends from visiting. This isolation planted the first seeds of Renata’s obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), even though she didn’t realize it at the time. She found solace in writing short stories, reading books, and daydreaming, often imagining a life filled with friends and adventures.

Chapter 2: Heartbreak

At 18 she met a young man 3 years older than her that lived a few streets away and had admired her from afar. The relationship did not last long, about a year to be exact, as he went to study in London and they split amicably, still keeping in touch to this day as friends.

At 21, Renata met a Banker, her true love. Their relationship blossomed quickly, filling the void of loneliness she had carried since childhood. However, their happiness was short-lived. Renata’s obsession began when she suspected he was being unfaithful, to the point she developed Relationship Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (ROCD). The banker’s boyfriend’s infidelity shattered her world when he contracted an STD from exploring his sexuality and visiting prostitutes and brothels. The repulsion she felt triggered her OCD, manifesting in compulsive handwashing, disinfecting, avoidance, and an aversion to mentioning his name. The breakup led to a nervous breakdown, leaving Renata emotionally scarred. She blamed her ex for many years for triggering her disability and causing her emotional distress.

Chapter 3: Escape to Paradise

Desperate for a fresh start, Renata moved to a holiday resort, securing a job that promised a new beginning. But paradise quickly turned into a nightmare. One night, three co-workers, high on drugs, sexually assaulted her. She reported it to the Resort CEO (R.W) who did an internal investigation and the perpetrators contradicted what she said. Furthermore, if she had involved the Police this would have attracted bad publicity to the resort and the football club in which the resort CEO was the owner, consequently, she would also have lost her job. The trauma caused her OCD to flare up with a vengeance, plunging her into a deep depression. The domino effect of events including an accident where she had to have stitches only amplified her OCD even more. She ended up suing the resort owner and with the money she opened her photography studio. Circa 1992.

Chapter 4: Knight in Shining Armor

Amidst the darkness, Alan, the resort’s security manager, became her beacon of hope. His kindness and support helped her regain some semblance of normalcy. Their bond grew stronger, and eventually, they married (1998). Yet, happiness was fleeting. Two days after their wedding, Renata received a call from an anonymous woman demanding to speak with Alan. Suspicion gnawed at her, but she chose to trust her husband. Jealously prevailed when her husband insisted she concentrate on the security business rather than her photography studio, in which she had no option but to close down and outsource the work to two local photographers.

Chapter 5: Building Dreams and Shattered Trust

Together, they started a security business. Renata poured her heart and soul into it, while Alan preferred to stay in an administrative role, paying wages and other bills, delegating, organizing rota, doing callouts, generating business, and meeting clients. Despite her naivety, the business thrived for three years until £120K went missing and so did a JCB off a site they were guarding. Unaware of what exactly was going on in the business she had entrusted to her husband she started to feel uneasy. Pregnant and six months along, Renata’s world crumbled when Alan left her for the mysterious caller from their honeymoon (J.O), he then instigated an arrest of the security manager on the pretense he would return to play Happy Families if she signed the statements. She signed the papers and the Security Manager was arrested on Christmas Day but her husband did not return. There was uproar when she was left to pay 32 guards’ wages and had nothing left in the bank. One guard threatened to throw acid in her face and her newborn baby if she did not pay, the mentality of the individual spoke volumes even though he was the nephew of a very famous singer as he left the message on her voicemail which she played back to the Police. He was given a restraining order.

Chapter 6: Rising from Ruins

Heartbroken and on the business on the brink of collapse, Renata’s OCD resurfaced, paralyzing her with fear. With her daughter’s birth, she found solace in the support of her mother and friends. The bank manager resigned or possibly got fired for arranging an unsecured loan of £40K after she came to his office to notify him of the situation and that she would cease trading. Her husband even asked her to get her parents to remortgage their house which she refused. However, tragedy struck again when both her parents and brother died in quick succession. Overwhelmed by grief, Renata decided to restart her business alone, this time moving away from security and photography and focusing on marketing content writing and website design. It became her lifeline, giving her a purpose and a path to financial stability.

However perhaps not so much with fame, but fortune, came jealousy when someone in her close network of friends tried to cause trouble which backfired when they found she had inherited her parent’s estate. Renata decided to sever ties and put the past behind her, no longer keeping contact with her so-called network of friends.

Chapter 7: Love and Betrayal

Years later, she met an Eastern European immigrant who seemed to be the answer to her prayers. But his charm masked a darker side. His hatred and anger escalated with emotional and physical abuse. This became a case of domestic violence and a marker was placed on the house by the Police that should there be a 999 call they would put the blue lights on. Through perseverance, she managed to get him to leave her alone once and for all and was thankful that he had gone back home to his motherland Poland, but there was an element of fear that lingered what if he returned, what if he came back to finish what he started?

Chapter 8: Violated Sanctuary

While traveling abroad for a much-needed break from the turmoil of her life, Renata received a call from the Police that would shatter her fleeting sense of peace. Her home, her sanctuary, had been violated by a ruthless robbery. The intruder had ransacked every room, leaving behind a trail of contamination that her mind could not cleanse. Precious, irreplaceable mementos of her family and her past were stolen, as well as camera equipment, laptops, hard drives, and jewelry amplifying her sense of loss and betrayal. Overwhelmed by the intrusion and the thought of her sacred space being tainted, Renata’s OCD flared up with a vengeance. The insurance company did not pay out because the intruder was known to Renata and her daughter and what transpired was he stole Renata’s daughter’s keys and simply walked in and according to neighbors had a party and treated the place as his own. Some of the neighbors were none the wiser and assumed that Renata had given the intruder permission to come and go as he pleased even though one of the neighbors did challenge him, he said he was flat sitting whilst Renata and her daughter were away for Christmas.

Chapter 9: Writing Her Own Story

Some of this part needs to fully materialize as it is in the cocoon stage and has not metamorphosed yet.

  • Renata started writing for her websites and her autobiography (started).
  • Renata has a lot of followers and connections (Renata has over 12K connections on LinkedIn) and (nearly 4.5K on Facebook) (started).
  • Renata has enrolled to study for a Law Degree in October 2024 (starting).
  • Determined not to let her past or OCD defeat her, Renata turned to writing. Pouring her pain and experiences into words, she authored a memoir. The book resonated with millions, becoming a bestseller. Renata’s story of resilience and survival inspired countless others, transforming her into a beloved best-selling author (pending manifestation).

Epilogue: From Cocoon to Blue Morpho Butterfly

Renata stood at the window of her cozy home, watching her daughter relax in the garden, basking in the sun near the outdoor pool. She felt elated, having sold a record number of books, which had become a bestseller, with readers eager for more. Yet, the shadows of her past still lingered. As she prepared to celebrate the success of her autobiography, Renata remained focused on her quest to write a new chapter of her life, driven by resilience, determination, and the power of storytelling.



Blue Butterfly