#30dayfeb Challenge for Tommy’s

So my university tutor/friend/mentor/super inspiring person, Sophie Daniels, ran a challenge throughout the month of February (including the 1st March to create 30 days) under her artist project name, Liberty’s Mother. The name Liberty’s Mother comes from the name of her daughter who died very tragically the day before she was born and so Sophie has been working incredibly hard, raising awareness about baby loss and money for baby loss charities, particularly Tommy’s and Sands. And so for this month, Sophie is running a challenge about doing something positive for your wellbeing every day for thirty days.

I know a lot of people are doing physical things, like yoga or going to the gym or something that builds up their physical strength. But due to my chronic fatigue and chronic pain, those aren’t options for me. So I decided to do something good for my brain, something that relaxes my brain because I’m really not good at relaxing my brain. So I decided to make a piece of origami everyday because I’ve always found it calming; I can’t concentrate on anything else while I’m doing it. I guess it’s a form of mindfulness, although I’ve always struggled with the concept. I’m not great at origami but hopefully I’ll get better. The idea is that, if you manage 30 days (or if you’re feeling generous, regardless of how many days), you can donate here and help raise money for Tommy’s.

And I did it. I managed a whole 30 days. Here are my origami creations.

So, if you want to, you can donate to Tommy’s or click here for the JustGiving link for the specific challenge. If you choose to donate and want to include my name in the message, that would be lovely but regardless, thank you for your kindness and your generosity. It’s very, very much appreciated. And if this inspires you to try something similar for 30 days, go for it. It’s a good motivator. And I also encourage you to follow Liberty’s Mother on Instagram because Sophie’s written some amazing things during this challenge. Here’s just one example:

I have to admit, this challenge was hard for me. It was stressful to make sure I managed a piece everyday when I’ve got so much on. There were some days when I hated it. But there were also days where it made me smile. And my Mum has been very funny, filling the mantle piece with every piece I’ve made, even when they’re terrible. I have to say, that while I initially thought it was silly, it’s actually inspired me to keep going. It’s been hard – sometimes really hard – to find the time but I did it and I’m really proud of that.

If you try a 30 day challenge, good luck! And if you donate, thank you! I hope this post has inspired you. I hope you have a great, positive day.