Platform 51

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Categories: general
Wednesday, 16 November 2011
Platform 51 gives Louise a new lease of life

Louise tells us about making her speech at the CWN gala dinner

A few years ago Louise's (pictured right) life hit rock bottom and she could see no other way out other than committing suicide.  Then she came to Platform 51, the women's charity that supports girls and women as they take control of their lives. The courses and staff at Platform 51 gave her the confidence and support that she needed to move through this dark time. Last week she attended the City Women's Network's Annual gala dinner along with a number of attendees from Platform 51 - including CEO Penny Newman (pictured left)- and made a moving and touching speech about how she now has dreams for the future. This is what she said about the event:

About the City Women's Network gala dinner

How did you feel making your speech at the City Women's Network gala dinner?

I felt excited, I was really looking forward to it. I felt like I was finally doing something that I would enjoy. It was out of my comfort zone. I was challenging myself and I haven't done that for a long time.

The only time I felt a bit nervous was when I was standing behind Penny as she was doing her speech. I was about to share something very personal with strangers. Once I had done it I felt elated. I felt absolutely great. I will never get an opportunity like this again so I just got up and did it.

What was it like to receive a standing ovation?

Very overwhelming. I was very shocked, I didn't expect it. I was proud of myself. I made a room full of high calibre professional women feel proud of me. Not everyone can do that.

About Platform 51

What do you do now that you didn't do before you came to Platform 51?

I spend time with friends, socialise. I am not alone anymore or trapped. I got all this from the confidence that I got from taking the courses at Platform 51.

What does your future look like now?

Brighter, more opportunities and happier.

What do you think your life would be like without Platform 51?

I would probably be dead, and if not, it would be very dark, I would have no confidence and I would be very isolated.

What advice would you give to other women who found themselves in the same position as you?

They should open up to somebody. They should visit a Platform 51 centre or ring one and ask where they can get support and guidance in their area.

You volunteer for Platform 51 now. What made you want to do this?

I have been a fundraising volunteer and done a dualatalon (running and cycling event) and a school fair. I have even got my mum to volunteer in the café. I can't just take - I have to give back some of the money that has been spent on me. I am planning more fundraising events. I will never give up on this place now.

What is the best thing about Platform 51?

For me, it has given me a new lease of life and allowed me to make something of myself.

For all women, it is a safe haven for women from any background. They can come and discuss and talk about their problems.

Why are Platform 51 courses so important for women?

The courses help women to rebuild what has fallen down around them. They help to build confidence and self esteem. So that that they can become their own person again.

Louise recently found the suicide note that she had once written and ripped it up and threw it away. Proof that she has moved on and taken control of her life.

If you would like to hear more about Louise's story then watch the video: A place to come on our You Tube channel.