Turning Life Upside Down: The Unexpected Journey of Carolyn Parker

The Impact of Lockdown on Life and Work

The last three years have turned my world upside down… in a good way.

Before lockdown, my work involved care visits to private clients in South Leicestershire. I’ve always been a people person, starting as a chartered physiotherapist in the NHS, then working as an advocate for a learning disability charity, and later running a community support page on social media.

COVID-19: A Shift in Routine and Mental Health Challenges

COVID-19 changed everything. My care work stopped since I wasn’t a key worker, I provided companionship rather than full-on care due to a spinal curvature, lumbar scoliosis, and age-related changes. As an over-sixties asthmatic, I was acutely aware of the health risks posed by the virus. The isolation and lack of work led to the re-emergence of separation anxiety – a mental health disorder first experienced during my childhood when I was adopted.

I laugh now at my reaction to the lockdown restrictions: I developed a weird connection with news anchors. When they said goodbye, I would wave and cry, which I think was connected to the deep-rooted feeling of being taken away from my mother.

A person wearing a light blue blouse and a "visitor" badge smiles while standing by a riverside. In the background, the London Eye and historic buildings are visible under a partly cloudy sky.

A Creative Opportunity During Difficult Times

At my lowest point, I saw a social media post about a creative project funded by Arts Council England called “The Story of My Life.” Run by Our Solutions, this project offered participants the chance to write about a challenging life chapter, paint pieces representing that journey, and speak in a podcast.

My immediate thought was, “Yes, I’d love to do all three!” After submitting an application and receiving a call three weeks later, I realized I had been selected. Soon after, I received art materials and joined the Welcome video call. I was initially nervous, but the group quickly bonded over our shared experiences of facing adversity.

Writing, Painting, and Sharing My Story

During this project, I wrote my first book chapter about my abuse and recovery journey, knowing that if I could write about this, I could write about anything. Painting was also enjoyable, throwing emotions onto canvas was cathartic, and it was amazing to see others compare my work to Jackson Pollock’s.

I recorded my podcast episode in a commentary style, reading excerpts from my chapter, From A Place Called Broken. Though the podcast is no longer recording new material, the original episode is still available. The book faced delays but was eventually published in January 2024.

Finding a New Passion for Writing

This experience ignited a passion in me to write about life challenges to inspire other women. I wanted to let women around the world know they are seen, heard, and valued. I noticed my own shame shifted as I shared my story.

I joined an online writing group, and in November 2022, I published my first full book, From A Place Called Shame, which achieved #1 in five Amazon categories. Although I initially feared backlash, the feedback was overwhelmingly positive.

A woman with a headband and scarf holds a book titled "From a Place Called Shame" by Carolyn Parker. She is smiling, standing in front of a yellow door, and wearing a brown top. The book cover is partially visible.

Lifting the Lid on Taboo Topics

My ongoing vision is to raise awareness about taboo topics like rape, teen pregnancy, adoption, mental health in motherhood, and inner child healing. Week by week, my books reach more readers, and the support I’ve received humbles me.

I’ve continued writing for multi-author inspirational books, including Golden Threads: Women’s Shared Wisdom from the Tapestry of Life, launching in November 2024. This chapter reflects on how art and music became lifelines during my mental health crisis in 2002. My current project is a selection of fictional letters from a mother to her long-lost child.

Navigating Health Challenges

My health has changed significantly over the past eighteen months. My spinal condition and associated symptoms have worsened, requiring me to reduce my working hours. I’ve applied for benefits and support, including an Access To Work assessment, but I’m still awaiting these services.

I’ve been involved in the two-year Lilac Review, which addresses accessibility obstacles for disabled entrepreneurs, and found support in groups like the Business Success Network for Disabled Entrepreneurs.

In Limbo: Disabled Yet Able-Bodied

I feel somewhat in limbo between being disabled and able-bodied. My pain level fluctuates dramatically, meaning I can start a walk in good health but need to rest midway due to nerve pain. I’ve become adept at spotting potential resting points wherever I go.

On the bright side, my health journey gives me more to write about. I’m currently working on a memoir about my scoliosis journey to help others cope with this condition.