About me

I began my journey in Ireland six
years ago when I joined my husband, who had arrived a year earlier. I found
myself at home with a four-month-old baby and a nearly two-year-old toddler,
relying solely on child benefits as my husband was unable to send money back to
support us.

In 2020, I took on a job as a
cleaner in a nursing home. However, my true passion was to become a nurse. I
believed that the most affordable path to achieve this goal was by starting as
a healthcare assistant. So while working full-time as a cleaner, I dedicated my
free time to training as a healthcare assistant. It was a challenging and
exhausting experience, but I held onto the hope of fulfilling my dream.

Eventually, I transitioned into
the role of a healthcare assistant, although on paper, I was still paid as a
cleaner. I found immense joy in caring for the elderly patients and formed
strong connections with them. When the time came for me to leave that job, it
was an emotional moment for all of us. The pandemic was at its peak, making it
crucial for me to change out of my work clothes immediately upon returning home
to protect my family. Unfortunately, it was difficult to prevent my children
from coming into contact with any potential risks. Fortunately, none of us
contracted COVID-19, but the toll of working under such stressful conditions
for two years took its toll. According to my ENT, the vaccines I received led
to severe tinnitus, a condition that can be triggered by various factors.

By December 2021, my tinnitus
had reached its peak, leaving me with no choice but to leave my job. It was a
difficult decision as I had found so much happiness in that role. As someone
who had experienced hearing impairment since the age of 14, I had faced
challenges in maintaining relationships and holding onto jobs. However, with a
full and active life, I had managed fairly well without relying on a hearing
aid, only wearing it on occasions when I felt the need.

But when the tinnitus emerged,
my world came crashing down. I struggled to cope with daily headaches and
debilitating migraines. It took me a long time to gather the strength to bounce
back after sinking into depression. I felt immense guilt that I couldn’t spend
quality time with my children, even though my 6-year-old son would bring me
coffee and sandwiches to my bedside. Panic attacks and anxiety became a daily
battle, exacerbated by my inability to sleep due to the constant ringing in my
ears.

Being unemployed added another
layer of difficulty to my situation. It was challenging to find employment that
could accommodate my condition. However, my incredibly understanding Intreo
agent devised the perfect plan for me: becoming a massage therapist.
Recognizing my passion for human biology and my dedication to helping others,
he saw a potential opportunity in the massage industry for me.

Following his suggestion, I
discovered Holistic Egg Massage in Portlaoise, and it was a game-changer for
me. The staff were understanding and patient, supporting me every step of the
way. Finally, after a long and challenging journey, I obtained my massage
therapy certificates and began to dream with newfound hope. Owning my own
massage therapy practice became my biggest if not the most cherished dream,
alongside my beautiful children.

My husband has been incredibly supportive, and it
is thanks to him that I can finally dream freely. I am eternally grateful to my
wonderful clients who have played a significant role in helping me achieve this
level of freedom.