One in a MILLION!
This week we are recognising the amazing story of Pip Hounslow, 40, from Crystal Palace. She said…
Studying graphic design at university, I loved being creative. Drawing fonts was just my thing. And doing so was quite a therapeutic process.
Falling pregnant with my first child in 2015, I had a chance to sit down and enjoy drawing before I had to change nappies and survive on very little sleep.
Swirling F’s and dotting I’s gave me time to do something for myself.
Drawing the alphabet seemed like a great idea.
Before I knew it, I had created a poster of the entire alphabet in print.
Pinning it on the wall, I was proud of my masterpiece.
When, Otis, now six, finally arrived he loved it, too.
I would find his eyes fixated on the poster.
Having a newborn baby, I didn’t have a lot of time to carry on doing the art that I loved.
When, Juno, now four, came into my life two years later, I found myself quickly spiralling out of control.
The trials of being a new mum worried me, I felt butterflies in my stomach, and I was always on edge.
‘I’m struggling,’ I cried to my doctor, catching my breath.
Being diagnosed with postnatal depression and anxiety in 2019, I was offered therapy sessions.
I felt so relieved I had told someone what was going on.
Talking about my day, I could let out all of my burdens and worries.
Yet, just three sessions in, I found out I was pregnant.
It was a shock. The whole pregnancy was a very overwhelming time, but as I was getting help with how I had been feeling, I knew I had to stay strong. The pregnancy went by so quickly and my baby girl, Etta, now two, was a pure joy.
Realising that I needed to take time out and do something for me I reached for my drawing pad. Remembering how much Otis had loved staring at my print, I drew more with the intention of selling them.
With Covid meaning I couldn’t go back to work, it was the perfect time.
I could also treat my art as a type of therapy.
For every print sold, £1 is donated to PANDAS, a charity offering support for those suffering from PND.
The response to my work has been amazing!
I’m just so happy to be doing what I love to help others. Nothing can stop me now.
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