‘MUM WAS ALWAYS THERE FOR ME’

KATIE SAYS:

When I walked down the street and two men threw liquid on me, I first thought it was coffee. But the liquid stank and the pain was horrendous. I quickly realised it was acid, and ran to a restaurant to splash myself with water. Kirstie and I were taken to hospital, before flying to Tanzania and then home.

It was so emotional seeing Mum waiting for me on the runway. I know it was incredibly hard for her seeing me like that. When I was in hospital, my friends were amazing and visited regularly, but eventually they had to get back to their lives – they were starting university or new jobs. I often felt lonely, but Mum was always there, holding my hand. I don’t think I would have been able to keep going without her constant love and support.

Last year, I wanted to do something to give back. I thought if I shared my story, I might be able to help others in a similar situation – especially as acid attacks are on the rise in Britain. I started making Youtube videos and writing articles about my experiences. In August, I did my first TV interview on Loose Women. I feel that I’m able to turn my tragic experiences into something positive.

I’m now an ambassador for the charity Changing Faces. I also launched the hashtag #Settingthestandard on Instagram, to inspire people to embrace their differences. I used to be afraid to go outside, but now I am not ashamed of my scars. They are reminders of everything I have been through.

The attackers have never been found. Although I have nightmares sometimes, my life is too busy to waste any energy on hating them. Instead, I’m moving forward, starting my career and surrounding myself with love.