Tarn's Story
We all have a back story on how we got to where we are today - this is mine.
It was 2007, I was 36 years old, I was going through a divorce for the second time; my dreams shattered again. I was a single mum of three children with no training or education in any particular profession, and no sustainable way to support them. I was at the lowest point of my life; my depression was lurking in the background telling me to just give up - that damn relentless voice that intruded too often.
I was stripped of my confidence. I fell into a deep depression, only interrupted with full-blown anxiety attacks.
I was convinced I was unlovable, and my children would be better off without me. I had no direction and was about to be forced to sell our family home. I was also broke - I had pretty much failed in every area of my life. I knew I needed to pick myself up, if not for me, for my children. I wanted to be an inspiration for them, not some depressed defeated mess. I truly believe my next move saved my life.
As a 36-year-old single mum I was accepted into Deakin University to study a Bachelor of Nursing. I graduated three years later. But I wasn't finished yet - after graduating and working in many areas of nursing, I decided to specialise in Anti-aging medicine. After working in the speciality for a few years, I chose to establish my own Anti-aging clinic. I opened the doors with 38 clients and now I have over 800. I returned to Deakin University in 2015 and after three more years of studying, I completed my Masters of Nursing and become a qualified Nurse Practitioner. This achievement made me feel so proud; especially as all my children watched me graduate – it was such a moving and emotional moment.
Now, these are the REALLY important things you need to know. I’m at the dodgy end of my 40’s, I love smelly French cheese, and I’m a mum to two girl pugs... oh and three human children! I'm an extrovert stuck in an introvert’s body. I swear too much and laugh too loud. I can’t cook but I’m a damn great cosmetic practitioner!
I just want to let you know that you are stronger than you know, and don't let your mental health define you, believe in yourself, truly love yourself, you will rise again, I promise xx