Yes, Here I Am is well, here! It feels like it has been a very long-winded process getting this particular story published. It took a while to write - and looked a lot different in its early days to what it does now, but I am finally happy with it (or as happy as a writer can ever be with their work).
This story felt more personal because I, like my character Lucy, have struggled with anxiety over the years. For that reason I have long since wanted to tackle anxiety within a story. I know that lots of people will empathise with Lucy, whilst others will wonder what on earth she has got to worry about. As Lucy says, it would be lovely to just be able to turn the worry off, like a tap, but it doesn't work like that. If only.
As I've got older I have learnt to cope with anxiety better - and it does get better - although I still have my moments. Has anxiety affected you? I'd be interested to learn how other people deal with it. In the meantime, be kind to yourself. x
