Flotsam Flo was born from a dual purpose: to tackle plastic waste and to embark on a personal journey of transformation. This story, while extraordinary, is one for which I am profoundly grateful.

My love for horses, dogs, and art has been a constant throughout my life. Inspired by my Granny Florence, who encouraged my creative pursuits, and my other Gran Avis, a seamstress who introduced me to sewing at the age of seven, I developed a deep-seated passion for crafting. I fondly remember sewing up the edge of tea towels in her kitchen to perfect my straight lines.

Though I pursued Art through school and college, negative feedback during my studies led me to shift my focus. Despite my initial dreams of Fine Art, I chose Graphic Design and earned a First-Class Honours degree. My exploration of reclaimed fabrics and sewing during this period enriched my creative journey.

I transitioned into working for local magazines and newspapers in Cornwall, a role I thoroughly enjoyed. Yet, my desire for growth drove me to train as a secondary school teacher, specialising in Design and Technology. Teaching wood, metals, plastics, textiles, and Art became a rewarding experience, fuelling my love for hands-on creativity and education.

Flotsam Flo is the culmination of these experiences, combining a passion for art, a commitment to sustainability, and a personal story of resilience and rediscovery.

In 2019, while training for a triathlon, I experienced sudden, intense pain in my head and neck. Despite the agony, I managed to cycle the 2 miles home, only to have my Mum rush me to the hospital. There, I received life-altering news: I had suffered a subarachnoid brain haemorrhage and needed to be transferred to Derriford Hospital immediately. The urgency of the situation was overwhelming, and I was in excruciating pain.

This type of brain haemorrhage has a high mortality rate, with one-third of those affected sadly passing away and another third experiencing life-changing consequences. I was fortunate to be among the survivors. My Granny Florence was a pillar of strength in my life and her influence was profound. We didn't have a lot growing up so used to make do with what we had. Granny Florence's "make-do-and-mend" ethos, likely influenced by her time in the Land Army, taught me resilience and resourcefulness. She instilled in me the belief that “anything is possible” and that “there’s no such word as can’t.” Without her guidance, I doubt I would have made it as far as I have.

Remarkably, just 10 weeks after my brain haemorrhage, I competed in the Blenheim Palace Triathlon and secured 3rd place in my age category. Though I took some time to rest afterward, the effects of the brain haemorrhage have made some aspects of life more challenging. I experience forgetfulness, confusion, and fatigue when overexerted. While these changes can be frustrating, I am learning to adapt and am profoundly grateful for each day.

During an interview with BBC Radio Cornwall, I was described as “Teflon,” a testament to my resilience. This experience taught me that life is too short not to pursue your dreams and that tomorrow is never guaranteed. In late 2021, I left my teaching career and launched Flotsam Flo. Had it not been for the brain haemorrhage, I might never have had the courage to take this leap. My journey is ongoing, and recovery is a continual process, but I am committed to embracing it fully and continuing to grow through my experiences.

Flotsam Flo has been my lifeline through some incredibly challenging times. At my lowest, despite pouring my heart and soul into my work, I felt stagnant and overwhelmed. There were moments when I found myself in tears at my sewing machine, uncertain about the future.

Everything began to change in mid-2022 when I was accepted into the Cultivator Cornwall Programme. This was a pivotal moment for my business. With the help of a grant, I was paired with a mentor, Clive Kessell from The Really Useful Advice Company. His guidance marked the beginning of a remarkable transformation for Flotsam Flo.

Through this partnership, I connected with Peter Giddings from Biffa, who has become a strong support for our mission. This collaboration has provided me with an incredible studio space and essential business support. Additionally, the Cultivator Programme awarded me a grant for industrial sewing machines, further propelling our growth.

The progress we've made in just one year feels like a dream come true. I am deeply grateful for the support and opportunities that have come my way.

If my experience with the brain haemorrhage has taught me anything, it’s that seeking help is not only okay but necessary, and that each new day brings fresh possibilities. Remember, you've got this!