My initial reflection of 2024 would be ‘bring on 2025’. A relapse of Graves’ Disease in the closing months of the year and a challenge to my self-worth has certainly put a downer on giving 2024 a positive spin. But stepping back a wee bit does allow the highs to creep in. I may be ending 2024 in a dark place  but there is still lot to celebrate. And when I’m in a brighter place, celebrate I will.

The Highs

I discovered the joy of painting. As a teenager I was told that I was useless at art and have spent most of my life steering well clear of it. But age is a wondrous thing. I decided to dip my toe in and now I’m fully submerged. And actually I’m not that bad.

I competed in my 4th Hyrox. My second as a double. The pace was slow but doing it as a pair does make the whole experience far more enjoyable. Unfortunately my health issues have taken a toll on my strength and endurance so it may be a while before I can compete again.

I have co-written a chapter for a book which is due to be published in 2025. The book looks at what can be done to improve the maternity workplace. Our chapter addresses how coaching can positively impact relationships within the working environment.

I completed the second year of a masters programme at Warwick University. Unfortunately I’ve had to take a temporary withdrawal due to my health but I will return in 2025 (I think).

I completed the Surrey Three Peaks Challenge to celebrate my 65th birthday. 23 miles, walking across Leith Hill, Holmbury Hill and Box Hill. Yes I know, most women would opt for a luxurious spa, an upmarket restaurant, a case of champagne, but I wanted something different.

I came in at 8 minutes 55 seconds. Just inside the anticipated time of 7-9 hours.

A friend and I walked another 42 miles of the South West Coast Path : Coombe Martin to Instow.

My daughter and I walked across the Arouca 516 Suspension Bridge in Portugal. The bridge is the second longest pedestrian suspension bridge in the world. At 175 metres it is the highest. This was more of an achievement for my daughter who is scared of heights but was also a little unnerving for me.

My other highlights include:

• The Kelpies in Falkirk

• Exploring Edinburgh

• The Toboggan Ride in Madeira

• Exploring Porto

• The lunar landscape of Lanzarote

• And time (weekends away, long walks, the theatre and a lot of food and drink) with friends and family.

The Lows

Becoming ill again has been devastating, physically and mentally. I’m well on the way to recovery but I still have a long way to go. The impact on my intellectual abilities has meant I’ve had to withdraw from University. It’s a temporary withdrawal but I’m not sure that I will go back.

It has also had consequences for my confidence and self-worth with mine receiving a further kicking by events over the festive period. I’m not in a good place. But 2025 is a new year. So bring it on.