Dinky's Blog

A Little Update from Dinkykts EDS Diaries

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 22:08:16 GMT

Raising awareness, sharing real life, and doing it with heart. ��

It feels like there is a lot going on at the moment, so I wanted to sit down and write a little update with a bit of everything in one place.

First of all, my awareness stall is now only one week away, which feels both exciting and a little nerve-wracking. There has been so much to sort out behind the scenes, from products and pricing to signs, displays, and all the little details that people often do not see. Even though there is still plenty to do, it is starting to feel much more real now, and I am really looking forward to it.

This stall means a lot to me, not just because of the products I will have there, but because it is another chance to raise awareness of Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and continue supporting EDS Support UK through the work of Dinkykts EDS Diaries. Every little step matters, and being able to do something visible like this feels really special.

I also want to take a moment to say a genuine thank you to everyone who has been helping me, supporting me, encouraging me, and giving their time in different ways. Whether that has been helping with ideas, printing bits for the stall, listening to me stress, offering advice, or simply cheering me on, it really does mean more than I can say. A lot of this would feel much harder without that support around me, and I never take it for granted.

I have also been spending time updating my online store, which definitely needed a bit of a refresh. Some prices had changed, some products needed better descriptions, and there were items on there that no longer really reflected where things are now. So I decided it was time to start making it feel clearer, more up to date, and more in line with what Dinkykts EDS Diaries is all about today.

The shop now feels much more organised, with updated product wording and a better overall feel. I still may keep tweaking bits here and there, but it already feels like a much better step in the right direction. If anyone visits the website through my QR code at the stall, I want them to land somewhere that feels welcoming, clear, and true to the awareness work behind it.

Alongside that, I have also been working on making sure people can more easily understand the difference between my colouring book and my digital reading companion eBook, as I know that has caused a little confusion at times. My colouring book, DinkyKt’s EDS Diaries: Colouring Through Chronic Illness, is a physical book filled with colouring pages designed around chronic illness, awareness, and creativity. My eBook, A Gentle Companion to the Colouring Book, is different because it is not a physical book and it is not a second colouring book. Instead, it is a digital reading companion created to go alongside the colouring book, offering extra gentle support in a different format. The colouring book is available to order on Amazon or through Heaths Bookshop, while the eBook is a digital companion designed to sit alongside it.

There has been a lot of planning, updating, checking, and re-checking lately, and while it can feel overwhelming at times, it is all for something I care deeply about. Dinkykts EDS Diaries has always come from a very personal place, and every product, post, event, and project is part of that bigger aim of raising awareness, helping people feel seen, and giving back where I can.

So with only one week to go until the stall, I just wanted to say thank you again for being here, for following along, and for supporting what I do. Whether you have bought something, shared a post, encouraged me, or simply taken the time to read my updates, it all matters.

Here is to the final week of preparations — and hopefully a lovely day raising awareness and supporting a cause that means so much to me.

With love,

Katie

Dinkykts EDS Diaries There has been a lot of planning, updating, checking, and re-checking lately, and while it can feel overwhelming at times, it is all for something I care deeply about. Dinkykts EDS Diaries has always come from a very personal place, and every product, post, event, and project is part of that bigger aim of raising awareness, helping people feel seen, and giving back where I can.

So with only one week to go until the stall, I just wanted to say thank you again for being here, for following along, and for supporting what I do. Whether you have bought somet hing, shared a post, encouraged me, or simply taken the time to read my updates, it all matters.

Here is to the final week of preparations — and hopefully a lovely day raising awareness and supporting a cause that means so much to me.

With love,

Katie

Dinkykts EDS Diaries ��

Supporting Someone with Classical Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 19:51:24 GMT

A guide for partners, friends and family on how to understand, listen and support someone living with cEDS

Supporting Someone Living with Classical Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (cEDS)

If someone you love has Classical Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (cEDS), you may sometimes feel unsure how best to support them. EDS is a complex connective tissue disorder that affects the body’s collagen, meaning the structures that normally give strength and stability — such as skin, joints, and tissues - are more fragile.

For many people living with cEDS, everyday life involves managing chronic pain, fatigue, fragile skin, joint instability, and unpredictable symptoms. These challenges aren’t always visible, which can make them difficult for others to understand.

But one of the most important things you can do as a partner, friend, or family member is simple:

Listen and Believe Them

A person living with EDS knows their own body better than anyone else.

They live with it every single day . They learn over time what triggers pain, what causes injuries, when their body needs rest, and when something simply doesn’t feel right.

Sometimes they may need to cancel plans, slow down, or say they can’t do something that others find easy. This isn’t laziness or lack of effort - it’s often their body telling them they have reached their limit.

Listening and believing them when they explain how they feel is one of the most meaningful ways you can support them.

Understand That Symptoms Can Change Daily

One of the frustrating parts of EDS is how unpredictable it can be.

Someone may appear relatively well one day and be in significant pain the next. Fatigue, joint instability, and other symptoms can fluctuate from day to day.

This can make it difficult to plan activities, and sometimes plans may need to change at short notice.

Patience and flexibility can make a huge difference.

Respect Their Limits

People with EDS often become experts at understanding their own physical limits.

Pushing beyond those limits can lead to injuries, joint dislocations, severe pain, or days of exhaustion afterwards.

Encouraging someone to “push through it” may come from a place of kindness, but it can sometimes cause more harm than good.

Instead, support them in pacing themselves and respecting what their body is telling them.

Offer Support Without Taking Away Independence

Most people with EDS want to live as independently and normally as possible.

Offering help when it’s needed - whether that’s carrying something heavy, helping after an injury, or simply being understanding on difficult days - can mean a lot.

But it’s also important to allow them the independence to make their own decisions about what they can and cannot do.

Recognise the Emotional Side of Chronic Illness

Living with a lifelong condition like EDS isn’t just physically challenging. It can also affect emotional wellbeing.

Pain, fatigue, repeated medical appointments, and not always being believed by others can be incredibly frustrating and isolating.

Having someone who listens, understands, and stands beside them without judgment can make a world of difference.

Small Things Matter

Support doesn’t always have to be big gestures.

Sometimes it’s the small things that mean the most:

• Being patient when plans change

• Checking in on how they’re feeling

• Helping them avoid unnecessary strain or injury

• Learning about EDS so you understand their condition better

• Simply listening when they need to talk

A Final Thought

If someone in your life has Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, remember this:

They are not being difficult.

They are not exaggerating.

They are navigating a body that works differently.

Trust their knowledge of their own body. Listen to them. Support them.

That understanding can make living with EDS just a little bit easier.

�� If you’re reading this as someone who supports a person with EDS, thank you. Your understanding means more than you may realise .

Two Books, One Purpose: Creating Gentle Support for Chronic Illness from Lived Experience

Sat, 31 Jan 2026 02:09:57 GMT

How lived experience of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome inspired two books offering comfort, validation, and understanding

Two Books, One Purpose: Creating Gentle Support for Life with Chronic Illness

Living with a chronic illness often means navigating pain, fatigue, uncertainty, and a world that doesn’t always understand what day-to-day life can look like. Through Dinkykts EDS Diaries, I have spent years sharing lived experience of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) - particularly Classical EDS - with honesty, creativity, and compassion.

That work has now grown into two published books, each created with the same intention: to offer gentle support, validation, and reassurance to people living with chronic illness.

Colouring Through Chronic Illness

Dinkykts EDS Diaries: Colouring Through Chronic Illness was the first book I released. It is a mindful colouring book inspired by life with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and other chronic conditions.

The book was designed to be calming rather than demanding. There are no rules, no pressure to finish pages, and no expectations - just space to slow down, rest, and create at your own pace. Many readers use it during flare days, periods of anxiety, or moments when concentrating on words feels difficult.

The colouring book is available in paperback via Amazon.

A Gentle Companion to the Colouring Book

My second book, A Gentle Companion to the Colouring Book, was released as an ebook and acts as a written companion to the colouring book.

This is not a self-help guide or a list of coping strategies. Instead, it offers quiet reassurance shaped by lived experience of chronic pain, fatigue, joint instability, and the emotional impact of long-term illness. It acknowledges the reality of living in a body that requires constant adaptation, and gently reminds the reader that they are not failing - they are navigating something genuinely difficult.

The ebook can be read in any order, dipped into when needed, or simply kept close for comfort. It is available on Kindle, including Kindle Unlimited, and benefits from Kindle’s accessibility features such as adjustable text size and assistive reading options.

If there is enough interest, a small paperback version may be considered in the future.

“Living with chronic illness can be incredibly isolating. Ehlers-Danlos syndrome affects far more than joints - it affects confidence, identity, and everyday life. These books weren’t created to fix anyone or push positivity, but to offer gentleness, validation, and reassurance on hard days, and to remind people that they are not alone.”

— Katie Wearing, creator of Dinkykts EDS Diaries

Why These Books Exist

Both books were created to help counter the isolation many people with chronic illness experience - especially those with invisible conditions like EDS. They are rooted in lived experience, not medical advice, and aim to offer something simple but often missing: understanding, belief, and gentleness.

They are not about fixing anyone. They are about sitting alongside people and saying, “You are not alone in this.”

Where to Find the Books

Both books are available on Amazon.

More information, updates, and direct links can be found via:

Website: www.worldofdinky.co.uk
Facebook page: Dinkykts EDS Diaries

Colouring Through Chronic Illness — and Sharing My Story on the BBC

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 15:06:22 GMT

Turning Pain Into Pages — and Now, Soundwaves

I still can’t quite believe I’m writing this…

My first ever colouring book — DinkyKt’s EDS Diaries: Colouring Through Chronic Illness — is officially published and available on Amazon! ��

What started as a creative coping tool during long flare days has turned into a fully printed, fully real book that I hope will bring comfort, strength, and a little bit of calm to anyone navigating life with a chronic illness.

Every page is hand-drawn, filled with empowering quotes, zebra pride, and moments from my personal journey living with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS). It’s not just a colouring book — it’s a celebration of survival, identity, and hope. And now it’s out in the world.

And as if that wasn’t exciting enough… I was just interviewed by BBC Radio Cumbria! �� The interview will air soon and includes a special song I chose — Better Days by New Kids On The Block — a song that feels incredibly fitting for this moment in my life.

We talked about:

My journey with EDS
How I manage life with a chronic condition
The development of this book
My 2026 calendar project (also raising money for EDS Support UK)
And what I hope these creative projects will bring to others

It’s a short interview (about 3.5 minutes), but such a meaningful moment for me. I’m so grateful for the opportunity to raise awareness and celebrate a huge milestone — not just for me, but for our entire chronic illness community.

I’ve been going on about this nonstop, I know — but honestly? It’s huge to me. Thank you to everyone who’s supported, encouraged, and believed in this dream. ��

�� The book is £9.49 on Amazon, and £1 from every copy sold goes directly to EDS Support UK.

�� I’m also working on getting it stocked in actual bookstores — fingers crossed!

Let the colouring (and happy tears) begin.

#EDSwarrior #ColouringThroughChronicIllness #ChronicIllnessAwareness #RadioCumbria #SelfPublishedAuthor #InvisibleIllness #DinkyKt #BBCInterview #BarrowPride #ZebraStrong #BetterDaysAreComing

Thank You, Barrow AFC: A Season to Remember!

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 01:06:10 GMT

Because being a Bluebird isn’t just for one season — it’s for life.

Thank You, Barrow AFC: A Season to Remember

Today was the final home game of the season at Barrow AFC.

What a journey it’s been — a real rollercoaster with highs, lows, and everything in between. But through it all, I’ve been (and always will be) a proud Bluebird!

I’ve loved seeing all the familiar faces from game to game — the Barrow community really is something special. I’ll definitely miss seeing everyone over the next few months, so don’t be strangers!

I’ve also had fun trying most of the pies, tackling the chippy can (even though I’m not the biggest chip eater!), and today’s cheeseburger was definitely a winner!

A huge thank you to all the players, the coaching and management team, and all the lovely staff at the club. You’ve made every matchday special.

A special shout-out to Bluey the mascot too — always working hard to get the crowd singing, bringing smiles to faces, and making matchdays even more fun, especially for the kids.

This season has brought a lot of changes, including different managers leading the team at different points. Every manager brought something unique to the club, and I’m grateful to each of them for their part in this season’s journey.

Every player this season has brought something different and valuable to the team, whether it was strength, skill, leadership, energy, or heart. It’s been brilliant to watch how everyone played their part and gave it their all.

By the end of the season, a few players really stood out for me — Ben Whitfield, Emile Acquah, and Robbie Gotts — each bringing something special to the pitch, whether it was creativity, hard work, passion, or that extra bit of magic when we needed it. I’m so grateful for all the moments they gave us.

But truly, I’m proud of every single player who pulled on the shirt this season. It’s a team effort, always.

This season also brought a very special personal moment: making one of my Dad’s lifelong dreams come true by going to Stamford Bridge to watch Chelsea FC v Barrow. It was an incredible experience — from watching the match to doing the stadium tour, it’s something we’ll never forget. I also had so much fun going to Morecambe to watch Morecambe v Barrow too!

The end of the season always feels like the end of an era. It’s hard saying goodbye to the players who move on to new adventures, but I’m so proud of everything the team has achieved.

Now it’s time for a little rest, recharge, and then bring on August and a brand new season!

Thank you, Barrow AFC, for all the memories.

Once a Bluebird, always a Bluebird. ⚽��

From Trauma to Trust: Rebuilding My Smile with cEDS

Fri, 04 Apr 2025 01:02:54 GMT

Navigating dental trauma, healing, and care with classical Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome

cEDS and Dentistry: Rebuilding Trust, One Appointment at a Time

Living with classical Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (cEDS) means navigating the world with a body that doesn’t always behave like everyone else’s—and often isn’t understood by medical professionals. This can make even routine things, like going to the dentist, a much more complicated and emotional experience.

My dental journey has been full of ups and downs. Years ago, I went through a traumatic dental experience where seven teeth were removed—some were baby teeth, others were overcrowded due to the way cEDS can affect jaw and tooth development. Unfortunately, I was never given a proper follow-up. Some stitches were left behind and never dissolved, my gums would bleed frequently, and my cEDS wasn’t taken into account at all. I was left in pain, confused, and hesitant to ever trust a dentist again.

It took years before I met a dentist who truly saw me. She listened. She understood my condition. She carefully removed the leftover stitches, treated my gums, and even did cosmetic work that helped me feel confident smiling again. She made me feel safe—something I never thought I’d feel in a dental chair again. To this day, she still stops to talk to me when I see her. That kind of care sticks with you.

The other day, I had a checkup with a new dentist, and I was nervous—but she was wonderful. She took her time, listened, and really seemed to understand how cEDS affects my oral health. She told me I’ve done a great job looking after my teeth, and even offered to help with a small cosmetic issue I’ve been self-conscious about. I left the appointment feeling seen and hopeful.

So how does cEDS affect the teeth and gums?

People with classical Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome often experience:

Fragile gum and oral tissues – prone to tearing, bruising, and bleeding easily.
Poor wound healing – making extractions or surgeries more risky and longer to recover from.
Gum disease & inflammation – increased risk of gingivitis or periodontal issues.
TMJ (jaw joint) dysfunction – due to joint hypermobility, which can cause clicking, dislocation, or pain.
Dental crowding or high-arched palates – affecting how teeth grow in and potentially leading to early orthodontic needs.
Resistance to local anaesthetic – common in many people with EDS, making dental procedures difficult if not managed carefully.

In my case, I also had braces fitted on my top teeth—but unlike most people, I didn’t feel any pain during treatment. In fact, my teeth moved very quickly, and my braces were removed halfway through the planned time. It’s probably one of the rare times I’ve actually felt thankful for cEDS—our connective tissues might be more fragile, but they definitely made orthodontics easier for once!

Later on, I also had a gingivectomy—a procedure that removes gum tissue. I believe this was to help address gum bleeding issues left behind by the previous dentist, and possibly to expose more of my front teeth to improve their appearance and balance my smile. It made a real difference, both medically and cosmetically.

Finding the right dental care matters.

One thing I’ve noticed is that dentists often seem to have more awareness of cEDS than many doctors do. Maybe it’s because they work so closely with connective tissues and see things like healing problems, gum fragility, or joint issues like TMJ up close. Whatever the reason, it’s made a world of difference when I’ve felt heard and cared for.

If you’re living with cEDS or any chronic condition and feel nervous about going to the dentist—please know this: there are kind, knowledgeable professionals out there who will listen, learn, and treat you with respect. You deserve dental care that takes your condition seriously.

I’ve come a long way—and I’ll keep sharing my story in case it helps someone else feel a little less alone. I’ll be going back in May for the next step in my care, and I’ll keep you all updated.

Have you had similar experiences with dental care and cEDS? I’d love to hear from you—whether it’s good, bad, or somewhere in between. Let’s keep raising awareness, one story at a time.

#cEDS #EhlersDanlosSyndrome #DinkyktsEDSDiaries #DentalCare #ChronicIllnessAwareness #DisabilityAwareness #MedicalTrauma #HealingJourney #TMJ #OrthodonticsAndEDS #Gingivectomy #EDSCommunity #SmileWithConfidence

As Someone with a Rare Disease, Should I Be Worried About NHS Changes?

Sat, 15 Mar 2025 02:59:20 GMT

Navigating Uncertainty: How the NHS Reforms Could Impact Those of Us with Rare and Complex Conditions

NHS England Reintegrating into the DHSC – What Does It Mean for People with Rare Diseases?

When I first saw the announcement that NHS England will be reintegrated into the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC), my first thought was: What does this mean for people like me—those of us with rare, genetic, or complex conditions?

As someone living with Classical Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (cEDS), I know how crucial it is to have access to specialized services, knowledgeable professionals, and continuity of care. Many of us rely on NHS England for treatments, referrals, and long-term support. So, this kind of structural change feels both important and slightly nerve-wracking.

What’s Actually Changing?

Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced that NHS England, which currently operates as an independent public body, will now be brought back under government control through the DHSC. The idea behind this is to improve efficiency, streamline decision-making, and reduce bureaucracy, allowing healthcare professionals to focus more on patient care.

But the big question is: Will this actually improve things for those of us with rare conditions? Or will it just create more uncertainty?

Could This Be a Good Thing?

Let’s start with the positives:

✔ More accountability – With NHS England under direct government control, decisions about funding and services couldbe more transparent.

✔ Potential for quicker decisions – In theory, a more streamlined system could mean that services, treatments, and policies are implemented faster and more efficiently.

✔ Less red tape – If this really does remove unnecessary layers of bureaucracy, it might mean doctors and specialists can focus more on patient care rather than administration.

The Big Worries for the Rare Disease Community

But there are also some serious concerns:

❌ Loss of independence – Right now, NHS England makes decisions based on medical needs, not political agendas. Will that change if it’s controlled directly by the government?

❌ What happens to specialized services? – Many of us rely on NHS England to commission highly specialized treatments and care. Will these still be prioritized?

❌ Will this disrupt care? – Big changes like this take time, and there’s always a risk of delays, miscommunication, or funding shifts that could affect access to care.

What Are Patient Advocacy Groups Saying?

Thankfully, Genetic Alliance UK is already working to assess the full impact of these reforms, especially for people with rare, genetic, and undiagnosed conditions.

They’re looking at how this change might affect funding, service delivery, and patient access—and they want to hear from people directly affected. If you have con cerns, questions, or personal experiences, you can reach out to them at policygroup@geneticalliance.org.uk.

What Can We Do?

If, like me, you rely on NHS England for specialized care, here’s how you can stay involved and make your voice heard:

✅ Stay informed – Follow organizations like Genetic Alliance UK and Rare Disease UK to get updates on how these changes may affect you.

✅ Speak up – If you’re worried about your access to care, consider writing to your MP or sharing your experiences with patient advocacy groups.

✅ Join the conversation – The rare disease community is strong, vocal, and determined. Engaging in discussions and advocacy efforts can help ensure we aren’t overlooked.

Final Thoughts

This change could be good or bad—but right now, it’s too soon to tell. What we do know is that our voices matter, and we need to make sure that rare diseases, complex conditions, and specialized care don’t get pushed aside.

I’ll be keeping a close eye on this, and I’d love to hear your thoughts. How do you feel about these changes? Are you worried, hopeful, or just unsure? Let’s talk about it in the comments.

Why I Share My Medical Experiences: It's About Awareness, Not Negativity

Thu, 13 Mar 2025 19:22:29 GMT

“Speaking up about cEDS and medical care—raising awareness, not negativity.”

Honesty, Not Negativity: Why I Share My Medical Experiences

When I share my experiences of living with Classical Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (cEDS), particularly the challenges I face in medical settings, I sometimes hesitate. I worry—will people think I’m being negative? Will they think I’m just complaining? But I know that if I stay silent, nothing will change—not for me, and not for the countless others facing similar struggles.

The truth is, I don’t share these stories to dwell on the bad. I share them because they are real, and because they matter.

The Difference Between Negativity and Honesty

There’s a huge difference between being negative and being honest. Talking about difficult or painful experiences doesn’t mean I have a negative outlook on life—it means I’m raising awareness, advocating for better care, and giving a voice to issues that are too often ignored.

People who haven’t experienced medical neglect, dismissal, or ignorance might find it uncomfortable to hear about these things. They might think, “Surely that doesn’t happen,” or, “It can’t be that bad.” But for those of us with rare or complex conditions, these experiences are far too common.

I don’t share these stories to blame all medical professionals or to paint the healthcare system in a bad light. There are many amazing, compassionate, and knowledgeable doctors and nurses out there—I’ve been lucky to meet some of them. But that doesn’t erase the bad experiences, and it doesn’t mean we shouldn’t talk about them. Because every time a patient is ignored, dismissed, or mistreated, it matters.

Why I Speak Up

So why do I keep sharing my experiences? Because I know I’m not the only one who has been through them. And I want to make sure that:

✔️ People with cEDS (or other chronic conditions) know they’re not alone.

✔️ Others can learn from my experiences and be better prepared to advocate for themselves.

✔️ Medical professionals can gain insight into the realities of what patients like me face.

✔️ The next person in my position doesn’t have to go through what I did.

It’s not just about me—it’s about all of us who have been unheard, dismissed, or harmed in medical settings. If sharing my story means that even one person is better prepared to speak up for themselves, then it’s worth it.

A Recent Experience: My Podiatry Appointment

At a recent podiatry appointment, my concerns about fragile skin and excessive bleeding were ignored—until the podiatrist cut my toe, causing significant pain and bleeding. Only then did she acknowledge the risks I had warned her about.

This is exactly why raising awareness matters. This appointment should have been routine and straightforward, but instead, I left in pain that could have easily been avoided.

The Lasting Impact of Being Ignored

The soreness and discomfort lasted for days, but the emotional impact lasted even longer. I was left feeling:

❌ Unheard. I had clearly communicated my medical needs, and they ignored me.

❌ Dismissed. My pain wasn’t taken seriously, even though it could have easily been prevented.

❌ Frustrated. This was supposed to be a routine appointment, yet I left in more pain than I started with.

This wasn’t just about getting my nails cut. It was about how medical professionals treat patients like me—people with rare conditions, people who need a little extra care, people who have to fight to be believed.

And that’s exactly why I share these experiences.

Speaking Up for Change

It would be easy to stay silent. To let these experiences fade into the background. But if no one talks about these issues, nothing will change.

I share these stories because I want things to be better—for me, for others with cEDS, and for anyone who has ever been dismissed by a medical professional.

✅ I want doctors and nurses to listen, to take patients seriously, and to be aware of how different conditions require different care.

✅ I want other people with EDS to know that they’re not alone and that they have every right to advocate for themselves.

✅ I want patients to feel empowered to speak up when something isn’t right.

This is not negativity. This is truth. This is advocacy. This is making a difference.

So if you ever feel like your experiences are being dismissed, or if you’ve been made to feel like you’re “complaining too much,” please remember this:

Your voice matters. Your pain is real. Your story could help someone else find the courage to fight for the care they deserve.

And if sharing my truth makes even one person feel more prepared, more confident, or more understood, then it’s absolutely worth it.

I won’t stop sharing my truth. I won’t stop pushing for better awareness, better care, and better understanding— because we deserve to be heard.

This is not negativity. This is reality. And reality deserves to be acknowledged. ��

These Are My Better Days: How Music Gives Me Hope

Sat, 08 Mar 2025 02:23:04 GMT

The Power of Lyrics, the Strength of a Story

Better Days: The Song That Speaks to My Journey

Music has always been a powerful force in my life. Certain songs have a way of reaching into my soul, putting feelings into words when I struggle to express them myself. But every once in a while, a song comes along that feels like it was written just for me—capturing the highs and lows, the struggles and victories, the resilience and hope that shape my journey.

For me, that song is Better Days.

Written and performed by New Kids on the Block (NKOTB) on their most recent album, Better Days instantly resonated with me. The lyrics spoke of struggle, of pushing through hard times, of finding strength in love and perseverance. It wasn’t about pretending life was easy—it was about acknowledging the challenges but choosing to hold on, to believe in better days ahead.

As someone living with Classical Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (cEDS) , a rare connective tissue disorder, life has been anything but easy. I’ve faced countless medical battles, chronic pain, and moments of deep frustration when my body simply wouldn’t cooperate. There have been times when I felt isolated, unheard, and exhausted by the weight of it all. But despite the hardships, I’ve always found a way to keep going.

“The tough times, they won’t last too long. These are the better days.”

That line in the song reminds me of how far I’ve come. It doesn’t mean the struggles magically disappear, but it reinforces the idea that resilience is stronger than hardship. Even in the hardest moments, there’s still joy, love, and purpose to be found.

But what makes that lyric even more meaningful to me is that it’s sung by my favorite New Kid . Knowing that the words that inspire me so much are coming from an artist I’ve loved and admired for years makes the song even more special.

One of the most personal memories tied to this song came before it was even released. The day I took the photo included in this post, I was on my way to see Joey McIntyre in London later that evening. At the time, I had no idea that over a year later, NKOTB would release Better Days, a song he helped write—one that would come to mean so much to me.

But looking back, I smile because that day? That day was one of my better days.

Living with cEDS means that not every day is easy, and some are much harder than others. But that day in London was filled with excitement, joy, and a sense of freedom that doesn’t always come easily. I got to see one of my favorite artists, experience a moment of pure happiness, and create a memory that I still cherish. And when Better Days was finally released, it felt like a full-circle moment —as if the song was now connected to a day that already held so much meaning for me.

But Better Days hasn’t just been a song that comforts me—it has inspired me to write my own.

I’ve always been a writer, a person who loves to create. Whether through stories, poetry, or personal reflections, writing has always been my way of making sense of the world. It’s how I process my experiences, how I share my truth, and how I connect with others.

So when Better Days stirred something deep inside me, I knew I had to write a song of my own.

I wanted to create something that reflected my life with cEDS, my advocacy work, and my determination to turn my pain into purpose. Just like Better Days, my song is about resilience, about standing strong despite the struggles, and about creating hope not just for myself, but for others who feel alone in their journey.

These Are My Stronger Days

(Verse 1)

This is my fight, this is my road

I’ve carried the weight, I’ve walked it alone

Falling down, getting up

But I never let go, no, I never gave up

Heaven knows I’ve struggled

Long nights when I stumbled

But I held on tight

Through every storm

Didn’t have a map

Had to find my path

But I found my way

And these are my stronger days

(Chorus)

The hard times, they won’t last too long

These are my stronger days

I’m still here, I’m still holding on

‘Cause these are my stronger days

(Verse 2)

This is my heart, it’s been bruised

But I wear my scars like something new

Took some time, took some tears

But I found my voice after all these years

Yeah, I had my troubles

Had to fight the struggle

But that’s okay

I made my way

Now I’ve got my light

And I won’t lose sight

What do you say?

These are my stronger days

(Verse 3 – Advocacy Section)

Now I stand, I speak out loud

For the ones who feel lost in the crowd

No one should fight this all alone

So I built a space, a place to call home

I’ve seen the pain, I’ve felt the doubt

But I won’t stop ‘til the word is out

There’s strength in hope, in every name

Together we rise, we’re changing the game

(Chorus)

The hard times, they won’t last too long

These are my stronger days

I’m still here, I’m still holding on

‘Cause these are my stronger days

(Bridge)

Let’s light that fire, let’s feel that spark

Let’s lift each other when days get dark

Let’s sing it loud, let’s stand up tall

We’ve come too far, we’ve fought it all

(Final Chorus)

The hard times, they won’t last too long

These are my stronger days

I’ve found my voice, I’ve found where I belong

‘Cause these are my stronger days

(Outro – Soft Repeat)

La-da-da, la-da-da-da-da-da-da

These are my stronger days

La-da-da, la-da-da-da-da-da-da

These are my stronger days

Music has the power to heal, to inspire, and to remind us that we are not alone.

Better Days will always hold a special place in my heart, not just because of the lyrics or the melody, but because of what it represents—strength, hope, and the reminder that no matter how dark things may seem, there is always light ahead.

And now, through These Are My Stronger Days, I hope to share that same message with others.

Because even in the toughest moments, I will always be a writer, a creator, a storyteller. And through my words, I will keep fighting for better days—not just for myself, but for everyone who needs to know they are not alone.

I hope that in sharing this, others will find their own better days too.

Love Katie/DinkyKt

��

What’s a song that has helped you through tough times? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear your stories!

A Letter to the Hospital That Failed Me

Tue, 04 Mar 2025 22:53:29 GMT

“A personal account of medical neglect, pain, and the lasting consequences of being failed by the system.”

Dear [Hospital] & My Consultant,

I want to take a moment to reflect on my experience as a patient under your care—an experience that has left me with permanent pain, loss of function, and deep emotional scars that should have never happened.

When I first came to you, I was struggling with my hand and wrist, living with severe kyphoscoliosis and Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS)—a condition that you were fully aware complicates healing, anesthesia, and surgical outcomes. And yet, at every single stage, I was failed.

Failure #1: Lack of Pre-Surgical Planning

Despite my complex medical history, I was sent for a basic GP pre-op assessment instead of a proper anesthetic consultation. It was only on the morning of the surgery that the anesthetist discovered this failure—and rightfully called off the operation. This should have never happened.

Failure #2: Lack of Consultant Involvement

Despite being under your care, you were not the one who performed my surgery. Instead, a junior doctor handled it, without the direct involvement of the consultant whose name I was listed under.

Failure #3: Pain Mismanagement & Post-Op Neglect

I was in excruciating pain after surgery, yet despite knowing I can’t swallow tablets and require a child’s dose of medication, I was repeatedly forced to try swallowing tramadol. Only when my parents stepped in did the staff panic and scramble to find liquid pain relief from another ward—something that should have been prepared before I even woke up.

Failure #4: Severe Complications, Wound Care Mismanagement & Dismissal of My Pain

When I returned for my first post-op check, my hand was so swollen and bruised that even the nurses were shocked. My stitches were yanked out forcefully, despite my father pleading for them to stop because I was in agony. When I told the consultant how much pain I was in, I barely got the words “I wish I never had this done” out before I was coldly interrupted with “Well, we did the best we could.”

That wasn’t empathy. That wasn’t care. That was dismissal.

And let’s talk about my wound care. In the years since this ordeal, I’ve been advised that I should have had a plastic surgeon involved in my wound care, stitching, and healing management. This is because:

• EDS patients have fragile skin and connective tissue that require extra care with suturing.

• Wounds take longer to heal and are more prone to dehiscence (pulling apart).

• Scarring can widen over time without proper surgical techniques and care.

• Sutures should be left in for longer than usual, and additional Steri-strips should have been used for extra support.

Not only was this not done for me, but my wound care was actively mishandled. The hospital should have recognized that EDS requires specialized care, yet instead, I was treated like any other patient.

And when the hospital failed me, who stepped in?

• My GP personally arranged for community nurses to visit me every few days because they were concerned about how badly my hand was healing.

• The community nurses actually did more to support my recovery than the hospital ever did—going as far as making custom sleeves for my fingers to help manage the swelling.

My GP and nurses shouldn’t have had to do this. This should have been handled properly by the hospital from the start.

Failure #5: Abandonment When Things Went Wrong

When I finally saw the hand therapist, I was told it was too late—that my tendons had died, my knuckle had dislocated, and nothing could be done. Instead of acknowledging the reality that my swelling had been ignored for too long, that my pain had been dismissed, that my case had been handled poorly from the start, the blame was shifted onto me.

Failure #6: Your Complete Absence

Even when a senior hospital staff member personally arranged for me to see my consultant, you failed to show up. Twice.

The first time, I was told you weren’t available. The second time, I was told you had already left the hospital and wouldn’t be back until later in the day.

And yet, not even ten minutes later, I found you standing in line at the hospital restaurant. Laughing. Chatting. Acting as if nothing had happened. While I sat there, devastated and abandoned yet again.

Failure #7: The Emotional Tol l

This experience didn’t just affect me physically—it completely derailed my life.

• I had to take three months off college just to cope with the pain and the brutal recovery process.

• When I finally returned to college, I was struggling mentally as well as physically. The weight of being ignored, dismissed, and left in pain took its toll.

• My GP diagnosed me with mild depression as a direct result of everything I had gone through—the surgery, the lack of care, the neglect, and the sheer trauma of being left to suffer without support.

• And what was I left with after all of this? A useless, painful limb. Something that should have been helped but instead became a permanent source of pain and loss of function.

You Moved On, But I Couldn’t.

Meanwhile, you have since been promoted. You have gained accolades, awards, and teaching positions. Your name is tied to prestigious medical research, surgical techniques, and leadership in your field.

But what about your patients?

What about me?

Do you even remember me?

Your hospital claims to be a leader in orthopedics, a Centre of Excellence—but where was that excellence in my case? Where was the care, the professionalism, the accountability?

I was left broken—physically, emotionally, and mentally. And not once did anyone take responsibility for what happened.

I may never get an apology. I may never get justice. But I will make sure my voice is heard.

Sincerely,

A patient you abandoned.

Hello everyone!

Mon, 10 Jun 2024 22:15:58 GMT

It's been a while!

Hi everyone! It really has been awhile, hasn't it since I last posted here?! There's been so much happening that where do I begin? So let me tell you where I've been, what I've been doing and how I am feeling. So grab yourself a cuppa tea and a snack, put your feet up and relax while you catch up with me.

I'll start with the less fun stuff first and that's being my appointments. I've had a few appointments with my occupational therapist, my hand therapist and soon I'll be having my appointments. Some of these appointments have been really positive and very helpful to me indeed. Whilst the others not positive and helpful also I know that the therapist tried her best for me. I have just remembered that I have also had an appointment with a dietician and that went as expected.

Now time for me to tell you about something more exciting that is I went on a weekend trip away to Manchester at the beginning of May. While we were there, we definitely kept ourselves busy and even managed to do a bit of sightseeing which is something that we often don't do when we go to Manchester and going to London last year inspired me to see more of the attractions in the city centre.

As per usual on Friday night we went out for a nice meal and we found a lovely Italian restaurant where I got the biggest pizza calzone ever although it was delicious! We had a little walk around just to get our bearings and treat ourselves to a few little treats to munch on in the hotel room. Then we chilled out the rest of the evening as we were tired from the travelling and had a busy day ahead of us.

We started of the day with a breakfast in the hotel restaurant and then we got ready for the day in our hotel room. Slowly we made our way to the peoples history Museum. I spent a few hours there. I really enjoyed it at this museum as I love history and I love learning about different things that happened in peoples lives whether that is political, activism and awareness. This museum is free and there are special tours and exhibitions that you can do where you have to pay. I would recommend anyone paying visit to this museum, especially if you enter this kind of information. From The we had a slow walk and decided to have our dinner tea at Wagamama's. This is my first time at Wagamama's ever and I would happily go again. They actually had children's portions so I was able to get what I wanted but a small size which was still huge! We were able to sit outside and watch the world go by and enjoy the sunshine. That was one thing that we did have all weekend and that was the good weather. Due to mixup with a timing with the venue, we found we had more time to enjoy the sunshine and have a drink at coffee place while we waited. Finally, it was time to go to the venue and check in for my meeting and greet with Blue. It was exciting yet nerve racking as I didn't know what this venue would be like for disability access on the whole it was mostly good. It was great seeing the guys again and having more pictures took with them. The actual M&G event made me feel uncomfortable due to there being loud music, all the other fans being in the room so the M&G wasn't intimate or private. It didn't feel as special as a M&G should considering the sort of money you're paying for the experience. I'm partially deaf so it was hard for me to hold a conversation with C and to talk properly with the band. It all made me feel uncomfortable and anxious. I have tried looking for where to give feedback to the relevant people but struggling so if anyone seeing this can point me in the right direction, then please do. The show was amazing as always when I see Blue! The only issue was that they were large speakers right in front of where the disabled area was so it did block some of the view especially of the big screen at the back of the stage. If these were pushed back then the view would be perfect. Apart from these issues the venue was lovely and the staff are really friendly and helpful.

After another good breakfast and packing up at belongings, it was time to leave. Even though I'm such a leave after having a good weekend, I was tired and I was ready to have a good rest. We met my parents at Morecambe. The four of us had dinner at Rita's café, which is a popular café to go to in Morecambe that has been there for years. Then we passageways with C as she went home and we spent a few hours in the seaside resort. Then we passageways with C as she went home and we spent a few hours in the seaside resort. Then we parted ways with C as she went home and we spent a few hours in the seaside resort. We had to browse in the market and I got to do a little bit of filming just like I had done all weekend. What a wonderful weekend I had from start to the end! Thank you C for taking me and to my parents.

There have a few birthdays including my own so I'm officially only one year off till I turn 40! Can't believe I'm now in my last year of my 30s, it still feels right yesterday when it was my 30th birthday and I had a big party to celebrate it. It's what I'm planning to do next year. I had a Wolfly day celebrating I decided to go to the football ground as they had a family fun day and it was sunny it felt chilly at times.. I had a Wolfly day celebrating I decided to go to the football ground as they had a family fun day and it was sunny. It felt chilly at times. Then me and my parents ordered a Chinese takeaway which I enjoyed with on.

The other thing I want to tell you about is that May was EDS Awareness month so this made it a busy month for me. Me and my sister organised for us to do a Dazzle Walk for the EDS UK charity. So hopefully me and my niece will both receive a certificate and a medal each for raising over £100 each. Some of my family joined us on the walk, which was brilliant and we are thankful for everyone that sponsored us both! We did 5 miles in total. We raise £385 in total! I managed to complete the my EDS challenge throughout the month as well which was organised by the Ehlers Danlos Society. This was challenging at times but I always enjoyed it as it made me feel fulfilled, proud and happy to do it every day.

As much as it's all been fun, rewarding and exciting, it has worn me out both physically and mentally. I'm taking the time to recharge my batteries. In the meantime, I will slowly begin to start planning my future videos for my EDS YouTube channel. Both of my YouTube channels are doing well at the moment and I'm thankful for everyone's support towards them. Please keep liking, sharing and subscribing to my channels as it really does help me with reaching my milestones.

Me and my sister went to see a Professor talk to his audience about mass murderers at my local theatre; The Forum. It was a lovely evening. First me, my sister, my niece, my brother-in-law and my parents all went to the local Chinese buffet restaurant for something to eat and left us two to to the theatre. There we met my uncle, my cousin and her daughter and it was a nice little reunion; catching up on life.

Thank you for taking the time to read this blog post and I will be back again soon, hopefully not too long this time I have missed keeping you all updated with my life. Take care everyone and I will see you all soon in my next blog post.

Love DinkyKt xxx

Happy New Year!! 2024

Tue, 02 Jan 2024 17:41:37 GMT

My Summary of 2023!

So we are now in 2024, and I think it’s going to take me some time for that to sink in. Happy New Year to you all ��

I look back on this past year and it has definitely had its highs and lows. Just like many of you. Whatever happens to me, I always try to use that as a motivation, lesson learned or that some things just happen which is life.

I’ll start with the negatives first so that we can get back to the more positives. The most difficult things for me were dealing with my health. While it may look like I’m doing amazing, however a lot of it isn’t what it looks like.

I have literally gone round in a complete circle with certain issues. As you can probably imagine, this is frustrating when this happens. Although I’ve gone round in circles previously in life with my health, it’s been difficult this time as it makes it harder for me physically. Which as a result leaves me feeling unwell, lonely, and frustrated. This has caused my anxiety levels to rise which were already difficult to deal with on a daily basis.

After a recent telephone appointment with a dept discharging me which in one way, it’s the right decision but it means I have to go back through to the beginning again and see what else can help me that I can tolerate.

When you are not able to do some of the things or not feeling sociable, it can affect your self-esteem especially when you see everyone else around you just getting on with their lives, it can make you feel worse about yourself. My self-esteem has always been something that I’ve struggled with since my teens and it has been affected this year at times.

Anyway on the more positive aspects of this past year now because as always, I like to try and focus on the positives even if it’s just a slither. That helps me with my mental health. Usually it does anyway, sometimes I can be right morbid! Hahaha!

I did things that I had always wanted to do and I’m so glad that I was able to do them. Even if it did take me about a month or more to physically recover from it. It was worth the tiredness, the pain and the hit to my finances haha!

When a member of one of my favourite groups announced he was going to London, and after some discussion, I just knew that I had to go to see him. Even though I was really anxious about several things, I knew I couldn’t not go to London, as it had been one of my dreams to visit the capital city and I had never been! I managed to book myself a hotel, show tickets and decide on train times mostly by myself with a little assistance from family.

There were a few hiccups throughout the weekend trip but they were minor. It ended up being one of my best weekends I’ve ever experienced! I love London. I was able to do some sightseeing in the daytime and enjoy going to different eating places.

The main reason for the trip was to see one of my guys’ Joe at his solo show which was incredible. He was amazing! His voice kinda blew me away, much more than I expected. What made it even more special for me was after being kinda pushed forward from the fans so that he could see me. He had gone into the audience and was on his way back towards the stage. There he saw me, gave me a hug and a smile. To top it off, the lovely fans around me had captured it all on camera which I cherish so much. He even made the effort to show me some love from on the stage afterwards.

I met quite a few lovely fans who were kind, encouraging and lovely during and after the show. For the first time, I actually felt really included during this and that means a lot to me. After the show, we had met my Dad at a local pub where it was an 80’s/90’s music themed place which as you can imagine, was right up my street and I was able to enjoy more music from Joe’s band. Perfect ending for a wonderful evening!

Also throughout the weekend, we had gorgeous weather as it had been one of the hottest weekends this past year. I’ll forever be grateful to my Dad and my cousin; Cath for making this weekend happen and wonderful. I can’t wait for future adventures!

It’s been a great year for my favourite football club, not only have I been a spectator showing my support but I have written another article for them. They asked me to write on their behalf as a disabled fan the Level Playing Field organisation which was great to be involved with. The team have been doing brilliantly and I am truly proud of the managers, players and all those involved.

I have gotten back into my drawing again, doing it whenever I feel able to draw which hasn’t been lately but I enjoy putting pencil to paper. I can stop and start it at any point which is great for my hand/wrist/arm.

I’m closer to getting ready to send my book off to various publishers and this is another lifelong ambition, which I’m hoping to making happen this new year. I can’t thank my cousin; Dean, enough for his guidance and knowledge.

I’ve managed to enjoy a few fun days out with my family going to places such as the Lakeland Motor Museum and the Lakeside and Haverthwaite Steam Train and lake cruise to the Lakes District.

As I round up this long blog post, I would like to thank those who have continued to support me with regards to Dinkykts EDS Diaries awareness work, whether that’s following my Facebook page, my YouTube channels or my merchandise store. I hope the new year will be as successful if not more so!

My family is the most important part of my life, and they have helped me get through this year. I’ve loved seeing my niece grow throughout the year and watching her performances at her dance shows definitely made me a proud Auntie. I’m so thankful that she is my niece. I’m truly thankful for my family both immediate and extended. Thank you to my friends who have stood by my side showing kindness and support.

I’m proud of how strong I have been even when I didn’t feel like I was. I will continue to find ways to boost my strength, resilience and self-esteem. I’m planning on working to make more dreams come true for this new year. However, I will pace myself and listen to my body. I know now that I have people who care about me and will champion for me no matter what. I know that I can get through life no matter what is thrown at me even when things do get really tough, because I only have to look at how I’ve coped during 2023 and learn from those times. Thank you to everyone for helping me to get to where I am today.

I wish all of you lots of love, kindness, peace and happiness. Focus on your health and believe in yourself. All the best for the New Year. Thank you for reading this super long post. Take care!

Love DinkyKt ��

Pricing

dinkykatie@hotmail.com (Katie Wearing) — Tue, 14 Feb 2023 18:33:58 GMT

Pricing Update

Hi everyone,

We are writing to inform you that due to increase costs, we too will have to raise our prices in our online store. This is something that doesn't make us happy but it is what we need to do. We don't want to lose out financially as our main aim for having the online store is to fundraise by donating a small percentage towards The Ehlers-Danlos Support UK charity, from each product ordered. Please look at the store to see what we have that might just catch your eye.

Each order, we donate a few pounds, pay shipping and VAT so the order that you put in doesn't add up more at the end. Hopefully if we receive so many orders per month, we may be able to offer discounts but we will share any news such as this with you all on social media.

We are super proud of the products that we have available for you, and the feedback that we receive is amazing! So thank you.

We are so thankful for all of your custom and we truly do get excited when we receive an order!

Love World of Dinky

Dinkykts EDS Diaries Highlights!!

Thu, 19 Jan 2023 20:07:22 GMT

10 Years of Dinkykts EDS Diaries Highlight Reel

Hi everyone!

As many of you who follow us over on our Facebook page Dinkykts EDS Diaries, you will be aware that we are coming up to 10 years since we began, back in February 2013. So slowly, we are looking back on the positives of our campaign work. I believe in celebrating these milestones and why not?!!

While the odd bit of Dinkykts EDS Diaries has received bits of help from various individuals, the majority has been done by myself (Katie) so anything that has been done is incredible. I know that we haven't done huge things, what we have done is wonderful and I am proud.

Looking back, we never did manage to organise a family fun-day and that was one of the reasons why we began this campaign but due to the nature of having a rare disease like Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, you just never know what life throws at you. Perhaps in the near future, we can actually organise a family fun-day? Hopefully this time, I won't end up in hospital (twice) haha!

I have always wanted to go out in the community, whether it's going into schools, colleges, medical panels or having a stall where I meet random members of the public and raise awareness, and hopefully fundraise at the same time. I did get a taster of going into classes at college when I attended my local sixth form college and I really enjoyed it.

We will be showcasing whatever we do on our YouTube channel as that's our main focus of awareness work. We also have the whole month of May to do lots of things as that's EDS Awareness Month and we want your ideas/suggestions!

So definitely more highlights to come in 2023 and beyond!!

Love DinkyKt

Dinkykts EDS Diaries Upcoming Anniversary

Tue, 10 Jan 2023 17:25:30 GMT

Dinkykts EDS Diaries Upcoming Anniversary Looming Plans

Hello, on the 6th February 2023, it'll be the 10th anniversary of Dinkykts EDS Diaries and of course, we will be celebrating this milestone!

One thing for sure is that we will be doing a livestream, and on this live, we'll be doing the lucky dip raffle. we have sold some of the numbers already, but will need to sell more so that we can finally do it. :D Once the prize is chosen by the winner, there will be a donation made to the Ehlers-Danlos Support UK charity so definitely pick your numbers and soon!

It'll be £1 per number and you can pick as many as you wish or you can just pick the one. We would preferably be paid via PayPal. Message us if you have any questions or anything.

The prize will be something from the online store... there's plenty of wonderful products to choose from! Click at the top left to go to the store.

Do you have any other suggestions in how we can celebrate this milestone, in how we can raise awareness and fundraising money for charity, do share with us. We have thought of one or two ideas so far but more suggestions/ideas are definitely welcome. Maybe you could do something at home, in the workplace/school or somewhere else to raise awareness?

We can't believe we will be celebrating ten years, absolutely crazy! but we feel super proud of the journey that we have shared together because without your support and kindness, we wouldn't be here today, so THANK YOU!!!

Love DinkyKt

Goodbye 2022 and Hello to 2023!!

Sun, 01 Jan 2023 17:15:03 GMT

My Summary of 2022

Hi everyone!

So here we are at the end of the year 2022, and I'm writing this post to share a few thoughts, hopes and wishes with you all. I apologise in advance if I ramble a little and go off on tangents at any point, but that's just me being me.
Like many previous years, there's been ups and downs. Just like so many other people across the world. The downs are not 'downs' as such, but difficult times that have been challenging. The year started off with saying goodbye to my dear Auntie who is now with my late Grandparents and my Uncle. I'm hoping that I'm making them all proud of me and will continue to do so for as long as I live.

Throughout the year, I have struggled with my health and it has put things on the back burner such as my awareness work. My awareness work is something that gives me focus, helps passes the time and making me feel better about myself knowing that I could be helping at least one person. I feel like I’ve neglected it a little bit which has been hard because I have always been a determined type of person. In the new year, I’m hoping to really get it going again, and perhaps even find someone who could help me with it as I have my Facebook page, my EDS/Disability YouTube channel, fundraising and my online store. It’s a lot for little old me to try and do all by myself especially when I’m not feeling too great. Obviously it has to be someone trustworthy and who is good with social media as well. It’d also be really fun to have someone who I can bounce ideas off with and other things.

Due to my health issues, it makes it harder for me to get out as much. This has made me feel lonely, isolated and alone at times and I miss the companionship of seeing friends. It does make me value my friends even more and also those that I speak to on a daily basis who happens to live far away.

I’ve had a few trips away to Morecambe/Lancaster, Blackpool and to Manchester. It’s always a battle with doing as much as I can and pacing myself at the same time whenever I’m away from home. They were fun times!

My niece made me very proud when I went to watch her in the dance show that she was in at my local theatre and seeing her performing/doing something that she really enjoys, made me happy for her.

I have enjoyed my filming, editing and uploading my videos on both of my YouTube channels. One thing I hope for in the new year is to meet my goals on YouTube as well. I always appreciate it when people make the effort to like, share and subscribe, so thank you!

There have been many hospital appointments, various tests and lots of tears. It can be frustrating dealing with medical professionals sometimes especially when you feel like they’re not understanding what you’re telling them and you have to push on at them to actually help.

On the other hand, one appointment which is definitely positive and that is that I’m getting a new wheelchair!! Woop!! I can’t wait! I have had my current wheelchair since a week after my 30th birthday which was in 2015, so over seven years ago and I don’t fit in it very well anymore. Hopefully I’ll have my new one in a few months time. Keep your fingers crossed! ��it is basically very similar to the current one but it has more support for me and they are building arm-rests into the molding which I’m certainly looking forward to!

My best highlight is going to see Blue and meeting them for the second time (please read my last post as I talk more about it there). I’m so thankful for Catherine for taking me and I really enjoyed our time together. It truly made me happy knowing that my favourite member, Duncan, who even took the time to read my post which was in the shape of a letter and a fun little poem.

One of the things that has helped me cope with this past year has been Barrow AFC, my local football team. They have shown me kindness, support and inclusivity. I know that a lot of this is down to the lovely Kelly and I’ll never be able to thank her enough. I absolutely loved the hospitality experience. There’s so many friendly faces that I see when I go to the football, even on social media with the other fans. I’m a part of their Disabled Supporters Trust, even though I’m unable to attend their meetings, I still feel included and listened to if I have any issues. This also lead me to have the opportunity to write an article for the club which I’m proud of. Also being able to meet some of the players and interact with them has been great, although I haven’t met many of the current team, yet. They did have one last surprise for me where their captain had phoned me to wish me a merry Christmas but unfortunately, I was unable to take part (sadly and gutted about it still!). This was a part of the club’s Christmas Giving Week.

Also I’m closer to getting my first book published, hopefully in the new year, as I’m just sorting it out. I need to work on a covering letter and a synopsis to send off to publishers. The few people that have read some of it have said it’s really good which is a relief! I’m thankful to my cousin, Dean for helping me with this. Let’s hope that by this time next year, I’ll be a published author like him! �� The first out of many books, I hope, as one will be a collection of my poetry.

My family and close friends have really helped keep me going this year so I’m extremely grateful. I’d be lost without my family and friends. They’ve been there through the highs and the lows.

Now none of us can predict what will happen during 2023 but we can only hope for the best possible, and that it isn’t too rough of a ride, because I want to keep on making memories in the best way that I can.

Anyway, this post is definitely way too long but thank you if you have read until the very end. Happy New Year to you all and I wish you lots of love, happiness, peace and good health. See you in my next post… on New Year's Day 2023!!

Love DinkyKt ��

The Gift to Blue

Tue, 20 Dec 2022 17:31:30 GMT

My Thoughts and Thank You's

Hey everyone!

It's been a few weeks (at the time of writing this) since I was in Manchester and having the time of my life there. I don't even know if anyone will get to read this post but like with anything that I do or write, it is written from the heart. This past few weeks has meant that I have been recovering due to the tiredness, pain and over exerting myself from the travelling, enjoying the show (even managed to dance like I said I would to the guys - think it was mainly to Lee I said it to) and tried to sing along despite my breathing issues, and also fitting in a lot of activity in such a short time.

The build up to going to Manchester, and to the arena has been quite a long process for various reasons but I was mostly excited. Also it had been 2019 when I had my last trip to the city and so much has happened since, for both me personally and for all around the world. This past year has been extremely difficult for me due to my health. It has taken its toll on me both physically and emotionally to be honest with you. Normally I am able to bounce back, often with a smile on my face but it has been so much harder. Having CEDS (Classical Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome) means that it affects me in many ways as it is a multi-systemic connective tissue disorder, one of my main features is Kyphoscoliosis. (I have two curvatures in my spine/chest) but with the CEDS, it has weaken my muscle tone and my organs are often not where they should be (it's always fun when having ultrasound scans watching the sonographer trying to locate what is what etc haha!). It has started to affecting my breathing, now I have Obstructive Sleep Apnea and other breathing issues as well. Some of the things I struggled with on a daily basis is fatigue and chronic pain but this has increased due to the newer issues.
I won't even talk about my anxiety issues as that could keep me here writing this all night and would probably bore whoever does read this, but it's not surprising why I do struggle with it due to all of my various health issues. I'm also not explaining everything that I am for sympathy but to help whoever does see this gauge some understanding of where I am and why I'm writing this post.

You see I'm from a small town so going to a city like Manchester is always exciting for me but it is definitely a big change. It's a big deal with the travelling and the pace of city life. Anyway, I'm digressing here. I first did a meet and greet with Blue back in 2015, and it was at a much smaller venue (which I prefer, although the accessibility access isn't always so great). I loved this M&G, the guys were so kind and caring. They made me feel special, and I appreciated that they took the time to listen to me talking about the EDS Awareness work that I work so hard at doing whilst encouraging me to keep at it with it. This happened because Simon had noticed my left hand which got me talking about it. So I was a little anxious about this M&G and if it would be just as good this time round. Maybe due to how I've been feeling a lot this year, it probably made me more anxious, I'm not sure. I didn't even know or think that they would remember me. You'll be glad to know that they did! Again, the kindness and care, was there. Duncan asked me how I was doing. In that moment, for the first time in a long time, I felt great. The sweet gestures that they showed me such as shaking my hand, holding my hand and kisses on the cheek mean a lot to me and I consider myself an affectionate person, so I appreciated this from them.
It sounds weird but we always have an idea of what someone might be like and I feel like the guys are exactly like I imagined them to be like. After the initial introductions, I could feel myself relaxing around them which I think is a good reflection on the guys. They made me feel special, beautiful and important.

I’m going to summarise everything now. One thing is that I am so thankful that I have been able to meet the guys twice and have such a fab time. I will for sure keep these wonderful memories for the rest of my life. Coming away from this last M&G, it has left me feeling like I’m stronger than I was previously, it’s given me a boost. I never knew how much I needed this to happen and for it to boost my morale as it had been so low this year. My only wish is that I would love to spend longer with the guys (although I’m sure many fans would probably like this!) to be able to chat about different stuff, take selfies and just relax. One thing I do the M&G for is because for those mere moments, I can forget about my daily struggles, be the person that they talk to and listen to, to feel included as many times in my life, I’ve either had people talking to the person with me than to me or exclude me in conversations and events. I’ve never felt like this with the guys.

I really enjoyed the show too. I still don’t have a favourite song from the new album but ones that I do listen to a lot is either Ultraviolet or This Could Be Love. I do have an all-time favourite song though and that’s Best In Me. The harmonies are beautiful and it’s so simple. The only thing is the show finished early and would have loved it to be longer as it went so fast! Maybe the band can come to my home town and do a few shows at my local theatre (I’d be there every night showing my support!) for many reasons. Haha! In fact, Antony has been once when he was in Poster: The Musical with co-stars such as John Altman, Sam Kane etc which was fab!

Okay, I didn’t plan on writing this much and thank you if you are still reading. Writing has always been my forte when it comes to expressing myself and sometimes it’s isn’t always easy to say it out loud. Since 2001, I have been a loyal fan and will continue until my end. In a way, I feel like we have grown up together although they never knew I existed until we met on the Colours Tour, and it’s been great. As creative writing is something that I have spent many years doing, I have written a poem. At first glance, it seems like just a general, cheesy poem but reading between the lines, it tells a little story about myself. It was fun writing this and hopefully you'll enjoy what I've done.

You help bring out the best in me
No matter where life takes me, I'll come back to you
When I see you live, it's definitely paradise
For those few hours, I truly feel alive
You make me wanna all rise to your hits
Life makes it harder for me to bounce back these days
Now I struggle to breathe easy due to my health issues
One thing for sure is that I'm not yet broken
Home is where I spend most of my time
But I"ll always be guilty of being a fan
You deserve to feel like the king of the world
I'll be right here waiting for your next tour
Hopefully it won't be too long for the adventures
But that depends on if you come back again soon
There will never be no goodbyes from me
One love to you all in Blue

Love Katie (@DinkyKt online)

Online Store Open!!

Tue, 15 Nov 2022 23:54:05 GMT

Time to make your orders with us!

Hi everyone, we hope everyone is keeping well and as Christmas is looming amongst us very soon, we think it's the perfect time to start your Christmas shopping. Let us here at WorldofDinky.co.uk be your first stop of call!

We have a wide variety of lovely products, suitable for all the family. There are T-shirts, long-sleeved shirts, babygrows, pillowcases, mouse, mats, and more recently the brand-new, soy wax candles plus many more items! We think our products are perfect for those that you love.
If you happen to purchase more than one of each product, we will try and give you a discount to save those valuable coins!

For every order made, a small percentage of the profits goes towards the Ehlers-Danlos support UK charity that supports people like Katie and many others, who have Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. No, only do they support people, but they also do research into Ehlers-Danlos syndrome.
There will be Posting and Packaging added to your order and you will be kept updated on your order progress.

Put your feet up and spend the next half hour browsing our store and hopefully you will find something like. Contact us if you have any questions or you can't find something specific that you are looking for and we will see what we can do for you.

See you all soon,
Love us at World of Dinky!

NEW IN!!

Thu, 03 Nov 2022 16:14:18 GMT

See what is new in my store!

I have received news that there are now glass jar soy wax candles instead of the original ones so I obviously had to replace with the new soy wax candles! They have a pleasant natural aroma. I imagine these will sell really well as who doesn't love a candle to wind down to and especially ones that are more eco friendly. As with all of my products on my online store, everything has the wonderful eye-catching World of Dinky logo on it which makes everything unique!

Thank you for taking the time to read this post and I hope to see lots of orders being made for these lovely candles!
Love DinkyKt <3

When Is Enough, Enough With Regards To Comedy

Mon, 28 Mar 2022 16:37:22 GMT

Will Smith, Jada Pinkeye Smith and Chris Rock

Hi everyone!

I hope everyone has had a good weekend and that you are ready for a brand-new week just like myself. I wasn't expecting to be writing this post today but I felt strongly about the situation that happened at the Oscars event so here are my thoughts. Now I must admit that I have never watched the Oscars as I find these award ceremonies a little boring and a little pretentious although I do enjoy seeing what everyone wears. I have however seen clips over the years. So in this year's Oscars, there was a situation between Chris Rock and Will Smith. I don't follow Chris Rock and I have never seen any of his work, I don't think, so I can't say whether this is what his comedy routine is usually like or not. I feel like comedians really need to start thinking about the jokes and how they may affect people especially those that are the butt of their jokes. For many years disabled people have been made fun off by comedians. It's time to stop it. What is fun about targeting someone because of their disability? Disabilities come in all different forms. Both visible and invisible. Each disabled person is affected differently whether that's physical, mentally and can have a huge impact on our lives. Sometimes it can be devastating.
Jada Pinkett Smith has Alopecia which is an autoimmune disorder. The amount of courage it must take for Jada or anyone who has alopecia or associated disorders etc, I can't even imagine it. I can only imagine how much confidence and support it would take for Jada just to be able to leave the house, never mind going to an event like the Oscars which is shown worldwide. I love how she has learned to embrace the situation and take control like she has, so much admiration for her! I don't have Alopecia but I do have a severe form of Kyphoscoliosis (double curvature of the spine) and I am extremely thin, and it really does take a lot of courage and determination to leave the house, wear the things I wear and remind myself that no one is looking at me, or thinking negative about the way I look but then you see something like this happens, and it is so hard to not let it upset you.
I'm just watching the clip of what happened, Will was sitting there laughing along until he saw her face where she is clearly upset by the joke and then he reacts to it. It's making me think of the people who are happy to sit and laugh at jokes on someone else's expenses and only cares if it's about yourself or someone that they love. Meaning unless it affects them directly, then they don't care about other people, their feelings and situations. This is something that I have seen a lot over the pandemic which saddens me. Now I'm not saying that Will only cares about anyone else beside himself or his loved ones but this is a great sample I think. Will Smith has every right to defend his wife but the way he went about it that's wrong. And I'd like to think that he is old enough and wise enough to be able to control himself. I know that human beings are reactive and we get caught up in the moment but that doesn't excuse violence. He has fans from all ages and it is not a good way of defending someone. It is the wrong message. Violence is never the answer. Not in any situation. I imagine seeing this can be triggering for some people.
I hope by what happened here can make a positive change and remind people that people have feelings. Especially those of us who are disabled here often the target of these jokes! Nor should you make a joke about someone's appearance in general. This is not about taste because this is certainly not tasteful humour. Many of these jokes aimed at disabled people are often because of a lack of awareness and understanding. I always ask 'how would you feel if someone was targeting your loved one about their appearance/disability and knowing it was hurting them?'. We are often taught if you don't have anything nice to say then don't say it at all, and I think this should definitely apply to comedians. Perhaps if people learn and understand then maybe we can be kinder to each other. What might just be a joke to one person may be devastating for someone else.
I really hope that both Will and Chris can learn from this. My heart goes out to Jada and to anyone was has been the butt of someone's jokes and I hope that they are all okay.
Thank you for reading,
Love DinkyKt xx

My Weekend Activities and Rambles

Sun, 27 Mar 2022 03:10:48 GMT

What I've Been Up To This Weekend

Hi everyone!

So I just wanted to have a little ramble with whoever reads this blog (and a huge thank you to those that do read what I write!) it's rather late in the night/early in the morning as I'm writing this.
My breathing issues have caused me to have some okay days and not so good days. On the not so good days, it really does make things difficult for me. It causes me to feel really breathless, really exhausted, incites the pain and leaves me to have headaches that feel like I'm being suffocated. When it gets bad like this, it makes me unable to do much and causes my anxiety to rise more. However, I'm doing what I can by taking my Ventolin more often, have my pain relief and basically just rest up in bed.
I have been having my usual back and chest pain, more so in my back in the last few days and it feels like someone is sitting on the curved part. My dodgy hip has been playing up too which has made things even more fun for me! My body really is greedy!
Now I'm going to be more positive now, because I'm sure you'll be fed up of reading about my health issues just like I am for enduring them on a chronic basis. Just a few days ago, I finished writing my stories which I'm going to do my hardest to get published. It has been one of my lifelong dreams/ambitions to have my own books and to see my own words printed. I started off by writing one story but typically me being me, I began visioning things from the male's perspective and I just knew that I had to write about the main male character in his own book. The two books are intertwined so you get the two main characters' perspectives. It has been so much fun to write about their story. Both characters are from different worlds as in she's a disabled woman who's living her life like she is and he is a top league footballer. They meet. A friendship forms between the pair and you can follow their journey. I'm already thinking about writing sequels and I really do care about the characters.
At the moment, I'm proof-reading both books and editing them wherever they need it. I'm also trying to come up with the names of the books (if you have any suggestions, please let me know!) and also chapter titles as some are currently untitled. My wonderful friend has been helping with designing the front cover which has been amusing! I'm so thankful for her help though.
Today my sister and my niece, Ciara (who's six years old) came to visit us. I was excited to see them both and it cheered me up. Then I watched Barrow AFC on iFollow. I thought they played well especially more so in the first half. I am remaining hopeful that we will start to see some positive outcomes in the last so many games. I can't wait for the next home game and seeing all the familiar faces as well.
I didn't get to watch the England game as I don't have Sky sports but they won. I really love the squad. It also gives me the chance to see/hear about the player that I like without feeling like a traitor to my own club (I don't mean Barrow, I mean the premiership) h ha! I must admit, I really don't like seeing negativity or vile comments to players, because it isn't nice and I always believe that we should be kind to each other. We all have feelings, no matter who we are.
Tomorrow/today, I'm supposed to be going to the local Manjushry centre for a little drive out and to enjoy the sunny weather. I do love going to this place, I might vlog bits of my time there but I don't know yet. That reminds me, I need to have a look at what I want to wear and I'll have a browse before I go to sleep.
I hope everyone has a nice day and take care of yourself. Please stay safe and have fun! See ya in my next post,
DinkyKt xx

Late Night Ramble

Fri, 11 Mar 2022 02:38:31 GMT

Rambling on what's happening in my life at the moment!

Hi everyone,

So it's late at night and I just felt like writing down my thoughts, I promise to try and not to ramble too much! I hope whoever is reading this is having a nice day and that you are feeling okay. At the moment, I am feeling okay. Today it was difficult. It literally felt like someone was sucking all of the air out of me, making me feel like I was being suffocated. It gave me a bit of a headache. My Dad helped me with my inhaler to see if it would help at all, although it did help a little but not a great deal. It was better than having nothing at all. I made the decision to try and let myself fall asleep as much as possible which I did end up dozing off.
Then earlier this evening, I publicised my latest mini vlog up on my YouTube channel. I actually filmed this vlog quite a few weeks ago but I had other videos that I wanted to upload first. Vlogging type of videos are definitely the easiest videos to film and edit, you don't have to do as much planning and it's more spontaneous. Although I do really enjoy the research, the planning, the filming on the editing part of my other videos particularly on my 'Dinkykts EDS Diaries' channel, as that is more educational and informative. I do hope to be able to reach out to more people on this channel as it means the world to me to be able to raise awareness about EDS and especially the classical type which is what I have, so if you do ever see any videos, please subscribe and share with your loved ones. I have added a few more new videos on here from both channels so do feel free to check them out when you get a chance and I hope you enjoy and learn something from them.
The progress on my creative writing, my two books that I am working on has slowed down, but hopefully I will pick that back up again in the next few days. One of the books I have completed is the first draft and the other book I am only 1 1/2 chapters left before the first chapter is complete. This will be the first time ever that I have complete books and I am excited to look into how to get them published. Ever since I was a little girl it has been my dream to be an author and I'm getting so close to seeing that dream become a reality. It's exciting! Even though they are two separate books they are intertwined with one another. They are based on a love story but there are elements of disability awareness within the books. I really love this story I love the characters and I hope whoever reads the books, I hope that they enjoy reading them as much as I have enjoyed writing, creating the characters and the stories.
Things have been up-and-down for me recently with regards to her on the feeling of physically and mentally. It's not easy learning how bad your lungs are and it's another thing on top of all my other health issues but I am ploughing on the best that I can. I'm fighting hard to not let the physical and the emotions consume me too much because I want to do as much as I can while I can although I have to be very careful and minimise any risk. Some days I am managing and coping better than others. I am having my birthday is in good days if I've been through truly honest with you all. On the good days I try to be proactive as I can be and resting as much as possible in between and on the bad days in particularly.
I am looking forward to the next Barrow AFC home game which will be against Carlisle United but this isn't for another week yet. We actually saw a goal in the last home game and it made me so happy so I'm hoping to see more goals for the remainder of the season! This call was by John Rooney and it was a good goal some people didn't think it'd gone in but I knew straightaway ha ha! Maybe Ollie Banks can be the Nets goalscorer as he has scored some wonderful goals so far, keeping nine toes and fingers crossed, I could say my hands and feet as well (like the doctors did with me as a youngster haha!) Maybe Robbie Gotts can score again as it's been a while for him anyway good luck Bluebirds! Did I tell you how much I enjoyed the hospitality experience that they gave me at the club? I've vlogged my experience so go onto my YouTube channel to see this video. I hope to do it again soon. A few weeks ago I was thinking about maybe putting a photo-book together from all of the players I've met so far but at the moment I don't have enough photos so I hope to maybe meet more players before the end of the season so that I can fulfil this wish. It would be something really lovely to look at for when I may not be able to go to the football, it has been made harder since they've separated the area off so can't even get near enough now (also harder for those with limited access - won't explain here why). I feel cheeky asking the staff. So far I have met Ollie Banks who I've met three times and he's just so lovely and caring, Joe Grayson, Tom White, Tom Beadling (who noticed I have Jack Grealish on my phone screensaver haha), Patrick Brough and Josh Gordon. I'm very thankful to have met these guys and have definitely made it more enjoyable for me coming to the games.
Anyway, it's even later now, its 2:19 am and my fingers hurt from typing (even if the voice activating typer thing assisted me with some of this typing!). Thank you for reading this and I'm sorry that I did end up rambling a little bit (that's just me in a nutshell ha ha!)
take care everyone and I'll blog again soon, love DinkyKt xx

Missing The Flying Balls!!

Mon, 31 Jan 2022 17:56:24 GMT

A Fun Little Football Story

Hello everyone!! Its late and I wanted to share a funny little story with you all.

Thinking back to the last home game, at the football. Me and my Dad had just gotten into the fanzone, and he was asking me where I wanted to sit while he went to get a drink. He said ‘sit by the table and relax etc’ so he placed me just under the shelter. Anyway by the time he comes back out to me, the fanzone has started to get busier. Out of nowhere, a football came hurling over the wall and knocked down a pint in someone’s hand which was right where I was wanting to sit. Ha ha! My Dad said ‘I bet you’re glad you listened to me now?’ A few times the ball came over, nearly hitting people. Thankfully I was out of harm but if it had hit me, it could cause me some damage due to the EDS. I think whoever was kicking it over the wall needs to aim their shooting with their balls better.

It was quite funny to witness but so glad I listened to my Dad and was safe from being knocked out by the hard balls!! It’s one of the reasons why it’s important to avoid contact sports (playing it, not being a spectator). Oh if you are wondering what I was doing in the fanzone when they were kicking the balls, it was because it was just before the kick off and the lads are practicing their aims with their shooting. Then a few minutes before the whistle blows for KO, the temporary goals get moved off the pitch.

Anyway, just a random late night reminiscing moment which makes me laugh with gratitude and sharing it with you. Thank you for reading this little fun post and I’ll see you in my next blog post. Bye!!! ��

Been A Month Already?!

Sat, 08 Jan 2022 03:16:23 GMT

Been A Month Since I Featured on Barrow AFC's Website!!

Hi everyone!

Happy New Year!! I hope you all have had a lovely Christmas and excited for the new year.

As it's now the 8th of January 2022, it has been just over a month since I featured on the website and social media of my local football club' Barrow AFC. I still can't believe that they gave me the opportunity and the platform to share my story, especially as it was for The International Day of Disabled Persons' Day. So much gratitude goes towards the club! So far the article has had 451 views! Check out barrowafc.com to see the full article. I feel proud of myself for writing it.
I hope to get more wonderful opportunities thrown my way this year as it helps raises awareness about Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome out there in the wide world and not just online. Obviously, the individual opportunities will depend on how circumstances are with Covid and the locations. I would be just as happy if somewhere wanted to sell my merchandise and are happy in working with me in sharing my story, in my own words.
When I was a student at my local sixth form college, I was invited into various different classes to talk to the students and even though I remember feeling nervous before each time, I always enjoyed it and felt confident in myself. The staff found me to be easy to engage with the students which helped a lot.
So if you are interested in working with me in raising awareness about Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and disability related issues, then please do contact me via email. Hopefully my Barrow AFC article can be the start of something new and exciting, doing something really important which can help others who are in/have been/or will be where I am with my health journey!!

Thank you for reading this, thank you again to the club and to everyone who has helped get me to where I am today with this awareness campaign.

Love Katie

Reposting a Post From My Former Blog

Sun, 14 Nov 2021 01:07:55 GMT

In my next post, I will be sharing a new up to date post, now it’s 14 years since the surgery!!

10 Yr Anniversary // Wrist Fusion

October 15, 2017

Hi peeps,

So it’s been ten years since I had my wrist fused and the journey has certainly not been easy or pretty from the word go!! I’m going to share with you the story of what I have been through from before the surgery and the time since. I can’t remember certain things but I can remember most of it all.

Growing up; I was used to getting injuries, different pains, and various dislocations so at first, I just thought it was another thing like usual when I started getting pain in my left hand. It caused a bit of pain when I moved my little finger but it wasn’t dislocated or broken. I preservered with it for a bit before I decided to get it checked out. Some time later; I was referred to a local orthopaedic surgeon who I had seen many times over the years so he knew me. As usual, he had X-rays done and said ‘I’m referring you to Wrightington Hospital. I don’t want to perform surgery on you with you having EDS, but they’re more specialist than I am.’ So I agreed.

This was about seven months before I had the surgery. The pink splint is what they had made for me. Apart from my little finger, I had reasonable use and movement in the hand/fingers.

Anyway I received my letter from the surgeon at WH and it was the same person who I had previously seen about my knees and elbows. He actually told me that he wouldn’t operate on me as he wouldn’t know whether it would make things better or not so he had special splints made for me by their hand therapy team instead of the surgical route. I liked him and I was much younger so I think that made a difference in how he was with me. I have since learned that he is now a professor.

It was the day when my appointment came and we (me and my parents) travelled down to WH to attend it. There we met with the consultant and after looking at both my hand and X-rays, he said he wanted to operate on it. There he told me that although the wrist would be fused, the rest of my hand I would be able to move and use it. Anyway he booked for it to happen. I wasn’t too certain and I felt confused tbh. Had he forgotten what he told me in a previous appointment? It felt like he had. While we were there, they had me fitted for a special splint to wear. I wore this for a while.?

A few months later, we traveled back to the hospital on the Tuesday; ready for the surgery the following morning. I didn’t sleep too well as I was too busy worrying and I felt really scared. So the next morning, the nurses prepared me ready for the surgery. The doctor came and chatted to me. It was a different one, a younger one. He was nice and polite. He talked to me in thinking that he didn’t think my hand would take the fusion so he would just open it up and see what’s what. My hands and wrists are very small, my bone density is low and I have low muscle tone which is why he said about how he didn’t think it would work properly on me. Afterwards the anaesthetic lady came to see me and was surprised that she hasn’t seen me before in the pre-op assessment clinic. The clinic had said that I didn’t need to go through for one even though we were a bit ‘erm okay, if you’re sure...’ so I only had the very basic checks at my gp surgery. The lady really looked at me thoroughly, focusing on my heart and spine. (If you are new to me and my blog, I have a severe form of kyphoscoliosis and had a heart murmur when I was born. I also have asthma). She flatly refused to let the operation go ahead until she knows I have the required tests plus more first. I understood even though I felt annoyed and let down. For weeks I had been building myself up for this surgery and dealing with anxiety issues. I had been planning my time off from college as well. My parents and I weren’t happy that we have gone this far for them to not have fully prepared beforehand. This was definitely not up to the level of care and duty with careful planning like we had been used to at both FGH and RMCH.

We traveled back a few weeks later for the pre-op assessment and the same anaesthetic lady did all her tests on me. She said she wanted to take as many precautions as possible and wasn’t happy at what had happened. The surgery was looming and it was feeling more real than it even did before. I spent the next few weeks worrying, not sleeping and being anxious in case something bad happened. I had gone back to college and again they prepared for the time I would be absent. They spent many times trying to reassure me that I would be okay as they had seen how it was affecting me with the worry.

Again like previously; we traveled through on the Tuesday evening. We had met with another anaesthetist lady and she went through the form. I asked her if it would be okay if both my parents were okay to come into the anaesthetic room as I was too nervous to which she replied ‘yes that’ll be okay’. Pretty much like the time before, I spent the night tossing and turning in bed; feeling more anxious.

They got me up and prepped, again the same routine happened, except it wasn’t the consultant again and it was another doctor, so that didn’t sit well. They told us my consultant had Delhi belly which I thought ‘well where was he last time as well and surely as my case is a little more complicated, that he should be there?!’ They said they would put a lower limb block on me to which I didn’t know what he meant so I just said okay to him. The time came when it was my turn to go to theatre... they suddenly refused my dad to come with us so I wasn’t comfortable and I had this terrible feeling in my gut that this wasn’t a good idea. The lady tried to get my hand to put the needle in but I kept moving it away and saying no but my weak muscles proved too easy for her.

So the time was now about 1pm and I had been in theatre since about 9:30am. Apparently it has took much longer than expected. As soon as I got back to the ward; the amount of pain I was in was unreal. I had never felt anything like it. I couldn’t see my hand as it was in a lot of dressings and they placed my arm in an hanging sling thing. The pain was too unbearable so my parents had to get the nurse to give me some pain relief. They kept trying to force a Tramadol tablet down my throat which they were getting frustrated at; even though it said in my notes that I am unable to swallow tablets. Anyway after my parents reminding them this; they get me some liquid pain relief after having to go to other wards to get it. No matter how many times they kept trying to make me comfortable, there was just no way to find a position for me that I could cope with. It makes it very hard when you can’t sit straight or properly because of the curved spine.

Eventually my parents had to leave and go to the house place that was next to the hospital for relatives to stay. It was quite late. The ward was quite lively considering it was a hospital ward, some of the fellow patients and nurses were all stood outside the fire door having a smoke which half amused me but half made me think ‘hmm that’s very professional, not lol!’ I didn’t sleep much to say the least. Constantly having pain relief through the night to get me through.

The next morning, a therapist came to access me hand and was quite shocked. She got the nurses to come and have a look at it. They nicknamed my fingers ‘chipolate sausages’ so it was good I couldn’t see it properly. The therapist tried to move my fingers but there was no chance. The swelling was just too much and they weren’t a good colour either. She said that we couldn’t do any of the exercises as the swelling was too much and the fingers just could not move. Normally after a wrist fusion, you have to do special exercises to get them working again but this was not possible. Not long after, the doctor who did the surgery made his appearance and checked it over. He was surprised to see how bad it looked. It was the worst he had seen. He told me that my bones were a mess. I asked him if he knew what the chances of my other hand going like it and said it was a possibility which I thought �� wish I had never asked to be honest! He also said that the limb block can’t have worked on me. I wasn’t happy; they said to me that it would be completely numb. There wasn’t much else said from him and he made his exit. The therapist came back to put more dressings on it.

I couldn’t wait for my parents to come back as I felt the worst I had ever felt. I cried when they came and they did their best to console me. My appetite had gone, I felt too queasy and yucky. That’s how you know I was in so much pain when it makes your tummy churn! The next few days were a little hazy as it consisted of pain, lack of sleep and lack of food.

It was Friday now and they were debating on whether to send me home or not as I wasn’t good. The anaesthetic lady had been concerned over the lack of eating and I remember telling her that normally after surgery, I’m starving so it was very unusual. The nurses didn’t think I was ready to leave yet either with the state of my hand. Although I had already stayed longer than other patients; they thought I’d be out later on the day after my surgery which seemed a bit quick for me with having EDS. The ward closed on a weekend so they reluctantly decided to let me go home rather than move wards where they don’t really deal with upper limbs. Despite the few hiccups, the nurses were nice and the ward was very clean. So after they discharged me, we headed home. It felt like the longest journey I had experienced and I’m a person who is used to travelling to Manchester and back!

The next few weeks or so; it consisted of the same as it was on the ward expect my appetite had started coming back. My hand and fingers were still very swollen; the pain was still very intense. My days spent mostly of me either in bed or on the sofa with my arm propped up. I had back ache too.

It was time for a follow up appointment at WH. The journey wasn’t great as you can imagine. They sent me for an X-ray first so we went to get this done. Then the nurse called me to change the dressing. I just remember my dad was in the room with me, not sure whether my mum had gone to the toilet. The nurse took the dressings off and proceeded to take the stitches out. This was extremely difficult and they did not want to come out. After many a time in A&E and previous surgery, I did know that it takes me longer to heal and that stitches have gone left in, and that they come out with no force when they’re ready to come out. She started pulling and as it was getting too much, I started getting upset. My dad moved to sit next to me and held my other hand. I’m surprised I didn’t break his hand with the amount of pain I was in. I asked her to stop for a moment as because I was crying so much; I was struggling to breathe properly and I needed to get my breath back to normal but she ignored me. She kept pulling and yanking at them. By this point, I was screaming in agony. Even my dad tried saying to her ‘can you just pause for a minute’ but again she ignored. I don’t know if she didn’t read my notes as it would have said that I have EDS or she was too busy doing as she was told with no regard to my wellbeing or condition. I seem to remember that she had to leave it open so that the doctor can see how it’s looking. We waited back in the waiting room while the doctor became free for us. My mum had come back at this point and seen I’d been upset. I was nervous about going in to see the doctor as I just wanted my hand left alone now. Anyway we were finally called in, and it was actually the main consultant who was there. A part of me was hoping it’d be the one who actually did the surgery seeing as he saw the state of my hand and fingers. He looked at it and tried to move my fingers to no avail. It was causing me further pain. Anyway he got looking at my file or on the computer (memory a bit hazy as the next bit shook me!) I calmly said to my dad ‘I wish I had never had the operation. I’ve had no sleep, constantly in pain, it being so swollen and that I can’t move it still and I was feeling really low’ the next minute, he turns round and says ‘well we did the best you know!’ In such a harsh, and brutal manner, that me and my dad looked at one another; shocked. For my dad to look the way he did, says it all, and my dad is very laid back but it surprised him with how I was spoken to. He showed no compassion or understanding of what I have been through, whatsoever. Again, I got upset after we left that room. In all of my years and time spent in and out of hospitals, have I ever been treat in such a cruel manner by a doctor! Shortly after, in the hand therapy department; they fitted a cast on it. Once they were finished with the casting, we went to get a drink in the restaurant before leaving to travel back home. The sooner the better in my opinion.

My fingers and hand was still swollen weeks later and having my mum talk to the gp, who came to see me, they arranged for the district nurses to come out to me. They were worried about it and were a little annoyed at how WH didn’t seem to do anything to help us. The nurses had some special finger socks made out of elasticated fabric (the same that they use for compression) to put on them everyday to see if they could help the swelling. Nothing else was working; I constantly had my arm elevated up on cushions and had anti inflammatory medicine (to what my tummy could handle). It was agony putting them on but I persevered. I was desperate. There wasn’t a day that went by where I didn’t end up in tears due to pain and lack of sleep. My family rallied round me around the clock and they supported me. The only time that I left the house was to go to the gp surgery or WH, it was a lonely time for me. If Facebook or twitter had been around during this time, it might have made me feel less lonely and give me some sort of social interaction as I wasn’t getting any which was hard to get used to as I went to college most days.

Again another follow up appointment at WH. To be honest I don’t really remember this was so much, just that the hand therapist definitely reiterated that there was nothing they could do for my hand as they said ‘I’ve lost the use of my tendons and it was far too late to do anything. They were surprised that my fingers were still swollen a little bit (think this was in December). The consultant wasn’t there as it was one of the registrars.

My lovely friend who was also one of my main learning support ladies came to visit. It was so nice to see her as I was missing college and just seeing someone other than family. She brought me a bit of college work to look through which a lot went over my head. There was some bits from my other LS lady too, I missed her too. Whenever I felt up to it, I just read through the notes and tried to do bits of what I understood.

Christmas came. Some of it was a blur to me to be honest, although I did venture out for the first time since 31st October to my annual family Christmas party and NYE. It made me feel anxious being out and surrounded by lots of people. I tried my best to enjoy myself but I just didn’t feel right in myself.

This was taken over the Christmas/NYE period, about two months after the surgery. I always smile through the pain, I was trying so hard to not let the pain stop me. This was the cast they placed on me at WH. You can also see that my fingers had already bent under because of the tendons.

By now my fingers had finally looking more like my fingers with the swelling going down but they were still extremely tender. It was January and I was preparing for starting back at college. I remember being excited at seeing everyone again but for some reason, I felt really apprehensive. We waited until after the January exams had finished so it was the end of the month by the time I started back. The staff did their best to help me settle back into college life and I thank their patience. I struggled. They set me up to see the college counsellor and every week we met up to chat about things. My self esteem wasn’t what it was and I felt so down.

My gp was worried about me so she got me to fill out a questionnaire thing because I had told her how everything was making me feel, the pain I was still in and the disappointment I felt, I was crying so much that I didn’t always know why, anyway; she diagnosed me with depression and set about to help me. She understood what had happened with the whole surgery situation and the effect it was having on me.

Some time later, me and my dad travelled back to WH to see the senior hand therapist lady who was in charge about looking into what can be done with my hand. She specifically arranged with the consultant’s secretary for me to see him in clinic as I had only seen him once when we had that upsetting appointment. Every time we had gone, it was always one of his registers (or whatever you call them) and they never had any answers. They pretty much dismissed it. While she was talking on the phone to his secretary, I noticed on one of the shelves a big folder with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and I quietly felt suspicious (probably the best way to explain my thoughts) I asked her if they dealt with other EDS patients and she sternly said ‘yes’. I thought well maybe if you had, then the way I’ve been treat might have been a bit more empathic and understanding. They might have been a bit more aware of what’s happened to me happening in the first place. She looked at my hand while we were there and told me that my knuckles had dislocated which will have been because of the tendons losing their range of motion and the extreme swelling. She reassured us that it will be the consultant we’ll be seeing as she’s put special measures in making sure he will be there.

It was the day for us to travel to see the consultant. I jokingly said to my dad ‘what’s the bet that he isn’t there but surely he will be as it’s been made specifically for us to see him?!’ We waited in the clinic for our turn to be called in. Eventually we got called in and shown to one of the little rooms to wait for him to come in. Anyway, a nurse and a doctor came in, he introduced himself (can’t remember his name as we’ve seen so many there) and I said ‘where’s ...?’ The nurse said oh he’s had to rush off to leave the hospital. I quietly growled to myself, thinking ‘wow what another wasted journey!’ The doctor examined my hand and said ‘best to come back again’. We weren’t in the room long and we headed to the restaurant for some dinner. Guess who was in the queue in front of us by a few people in between... yep you guessed it. Me and my dad exchanged looks... I could feel myself getting upset and annoyed. I thought what a load of rubbish that nurse said, it can’t have been that urgent when he was happily getting his hot dinner. I suddenly decided that I will try and get his attention whilst waiting in the queue but he ignored me. He obviously went to his office to have his dinner. It would have only took not even ten minutes for him to have seen us especially when we had arranged specifically to see him and traveling all this way.

A few days later we had spoken to the lady from WH about what happened at the appointment so she’s managed to reschedule another date for us.

So we made our final visit to WH as I needed to see what they could do about my hand once and for all, we were expecting to see the consultant for sure this time. Again we were called into a little room and waited. Typical. The consultant wasn’t there. Instead was a pleasant registrar, he examined me like they do. He read my notes and the state of my hand, and looked at me saying ‘I’m not quite sure what we could do, apart from cutting it open. I understand that you’ve been through a lot and that you may not want to do anything surgically, with what you have already been through.’ I nodded in agreement, I didn’t want or trust anyone to operate on it again especially if it won’t make it any better. I couldn't emotionally handle doing through it all again. He shook my hand and he left. He was actually the first and only doctor to acknowledge the distress and ordeal that I’ve endured. To me though, it was too late and I wish the consultant could show the same compassion and awareness that he did because it was unprofessional and uncalled for.

There are lots of questions that I have that will continue to plague my mind that will probably never be answered. The lack of compassion and empathy will remain with me and effect me especially as I face future health issues because I have never experienced the ordeal that I have at this hospital, anywhere else. I wish I knew more about what could happen from trauma and surgery where Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and my associated conditions are involved. I know more now than I did back then, but I wish they would have made sure they were aware of all repercussions from this intricate and intrusive surgery and not go back on what they had previously said in appointments before this happened. I would like the consultants (and nurses) at WH to show more compassion, empathy and awareness with every patient, I do feel like because they have so many patients that do become immune to each individuals’ needs, whether that’s physically or emotionally. I hope that by me sharing my story can raise awareness and encourage other patients to be strong in advocating their needs and worries. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and challenge if you need to... this is something I take very seriously now. I strongly advice you to listen to your gut instinct too. I hope that none of you will experience what I have been through because it will affect you for the rest of your life like it has for me. Even to this day; ten years on, I struggle with pain and I have to adapt how I do things which isn’t easy when you have EDS, Osteoporosis and Osteoarthritis (in my right shoulder blade) to endure. It gets frustrated where I can’t even lift my hand because the effect of surgery. As someone who likes to have her nails done all nice and pretty, it is definitely a challenge trying to do my left hand. This is just an example of the frustration and distress that I’m talking about.

This is me and my not so beloved hand, today, ten years on.

I am sorry that this is such a long post but everything I have written is my experience and the truth from how I saw and how I have felt. Thank you so much for reading this. I would love to hear your stories especially if you have been to WH. Am I alone or have you had a bad experience with there too? Please take care, enjoy Halloween and hope to see you in my next blog post. ��❤️xxx

Backstreet’s Back Podcast

Thu, 06 May 2021 02:31:46 GMT

Thank You Ladies!!

Hi everyone,

I hope you’re all doing good and keeping safe?!! Last night, I spent just over two hours watching a group of lovely ladies, talking to the wonderful wife of a BSB member, and I’m thankful that I did.

There has been a few challenging weeks with my health, having appointments here and there, and waiting for some upcoming tests. So, I’m trying to spend as much as I can relaxing and watching things I enjoy, which I know many of us do anyway.

So last night, I was feeling anxious and feeling restless as I had quite an important appointment today which is focusing around what the hospital has found in my genes. When I found out that a particular podcast was doing a video (and instead of the usual podcast which made me more excited as I tend to lip read when people talk due to my hearing issues and manage to keep my focus better) and that they were having a very special guest. Before I reveal about the guest, this podcast is probably the one I’ve listened to the most, even more so than let’s say my favourite BSB boy’s podcast (ssh don’t tell him! ��). Maybe this is because I know who the guests are unlike the podcast I just mentioned about (again, sorry AJ!). However, I know I probably should listen to his podcast more as I too have severe anxiety problems (I have Generalised Anxiety Disorder and Panic Disorder as well as all of my physical conditions (damn why do I have to be so greedy?! ��)

Anyway, this podcast that I’m talking about is ‘Backstreet’s Back Podcast’ which is hosted by Taylor, Lori, Medina and Melly who do a fabulous job. They’re relatable in many ways and I appreciate their honesty whenever they do share personal stories/experiences. I understand it’s not always easy to be honest about things that are difficult to talk about publicly but when you talk, it feels like I’m sitting with a group of friends.

This leads on to the special guest they had on this latest episode, who is none other than the beautiful, strong and humble being that is Rochelle McLean. From whenever I first started following her on Instagram then onto Twitter, I just adore her. She’s so relatable, humble and so caring. We share many of the same values. While she may have a ‘wonderful life that many would probably dream of, a loving husband, gorgeous big home and two adorable little girls, and everything else that comes with being a wife of the world’s biggest selling boyband member, she’s so down to earth. I’ve never seen her show off or be anything ignorant towards other people and their situations. My interactions with Rochelle have always been lovely, encouraging and so genuine.

I’m thankful for the podcast ladies for making this happen with Rochelle, it definitely felt natural to watch, in the sense it was like I was watching five friends sitting and chatting. I found this episode, inspiring. It made me think about my relationship with my five year old niece, Ciara and how I tell her that there’s a big world out there, and that she can do whatever she wants. As she gets older, she will understand more about people with disabilities (obviously because of me, and teaching her to understand that we may not always be able to do the same things etc). Whenever she gets bossy, I always say that she will make a brilliant boss some day which I personally think is positive and encouraging.

Anyway, I think I’m going off on a little tangent, ha ha! Watching the episode definitely took my mind off things for a while and it really did relax me. I certainly didn’t feel like a ‘bad fan’ that I was feeling beforehand. Like the ladies, I’m no longer unapologetic for speaking up about the things I’m passionate and care about on my social media. I’ve learned that it’s okay if I lose a follower or two, because their moral compass obviously didn’t align with mine… I believe in fairness, equality, acceptance, accessibility and my heart is compassionate and full of love. All I want is, is that people are kind, accepting, open-minded and be able to be their true authentic selves, whoever they are.

I look forward to seeing (hopefully seeing) future episodes from these ladies. Although the main theme is obviously about the Backstreet Boys, it’s not all what is talked about which is evident in this episode with Rochelle. Thank you.

Lastly, even though it’s not in any relation to the subject of this blog post, I just want to let you all know that there will be plenty of awareness about EDS as it is EDS (Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome) Awareness Month, during May. So if you see any of my posts on my social media, then please share for me. I will also share about my special appointment from today soon once I’ve properly processed it.

Thank you for taking the time to read this blog post and I apologise if it’s a bit jumbled up, I’m feeling exhausted and my mind is a little scattered. I just wanted to share my full thoughts. Take care everyone and always be kind!! See you in my next post!!

Love DinkyKt

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‘Palmer’ The Movie

Sun, 04 Apr 2021 02:14:05 GMT

My Review For The Movie.

Hi everyone,

How are you all doing? I hope you’re all beginning to feel more positive as things progress (hopefully in the right direction).

I’ve been trying to watch a movie every so often especially as we have the film package on SKY TV. However, on my phone, I randomly discovered that I can watch films and documentaries etc on APPLE TV, which is cool!!

I came across a movie called ‘Palmer’ and I hadn’t heard anything being said about it online so I was curious.

I don’t want to say too much about the plot as I wouldn’t like to give any spoilers. So this review will be quite short. It’s basically about a newly released guy from a long spell in jail and he forms an unlikely bond with a kid. I found it to be heartwarming even at times feeling a little frustrating at certain points because of what happens but that’s good that I felt that. It’s proof that it does provoke your emotions.

I haven’t seen all of the films that Justin Timberlake has been in but I do feel like this is his best performance that I have seen so far. I didn’t recognise any of the other cast but the young actor; Ryder Allen, he was brilliant and played ‘Sam’ so well. His ability to make the viewer adore him and cheer for him, shows his acting skills. I can’t wait to see what else he stars in in the future.

I definitely recommend this movie and it’s progressive too which I think many people should see. Even if it just shows that we are all unique and wonderful in our own ways.

The only thing is I feel the ending was a little rushed but I still really enjoyed it thoroughly.

I hope you all get to see it, if you do, I’d love to hear your thoughts, maybe you will enjoy it too!! Thank you for reading this blog post and I’ll see you soon.

Lots of love,

DinkyKt

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Lost In My Thoughts

Fri, 12 Mar 2021 23:14:33 GMT

A Newly Written Poem By Myself

Lost In My Thoughts

As I sit here alone in the dark, in my room

Like I do every night, lost in my thoughts

Trying not to let myself get down in the gloom

All of our lives are like those story plots

Turning each page as we navigate through

For the last few days where I’ve had no words

Instead, I expressed myself in my writing

Enjoying listening to the sound of the birds

Been feeling like keeping myself in hiding

That desire to distance from all in the world

Sometimes I feel like I don’t belong anywhere

Forever feeling like an outsider in my life

I often question silently to myself ‘but why?’

The pain my body is in is like a sharp knife

It’s not often where I spend a day without pain

The self doubt I carry around me in my head

It’s almost as suffocating as the chest pains

It’s all so challenging for me to forever shred

Like someone has put me in big, heavy chains

Can be a burden to be an empathic person

My life has thrown so much at me already

Living with a rare disease is like a rollercoaster

There have been times where it’s been scary

Definitely not worth being a cut-out wall poster

So many tears have been cried over the years

Now it’s the music, that I’m currently listening to

Where the words inspire me yet they make me cry

They help me in my weak times to get through

I’ll keep on fighting until it’s time for my bye bye

Maybe it’s okay to follow my own path in life

Everyday there is something beautiful to see

I’ll keep on embracing being alive in my own style

Focusing on those things that fill me with glee

Forever you’ll see me with my fabdabbydozy smile

With my loved ones around me, I’ll be just fine!!

Written by Katie Wearing

Date 11th March, 2021

The Harry & Meghan Interview

Wed, 10 Mar 2021 00:52:53 GMT

My Thoughts About The Interview and of Harry & Meghan

Hi everyone,

I hope you are all doing okay, and that today has treated you kindly. I haven’t felt too great today for various different reasons but I know I will be okay, Well back to my usual self. So tonight, I have been watching the interview with Harry and Meghan hosted by Oprah. I think this may be my last blog post about Harry and Meghan for the time being. There has been many things being said about Harry and Megan over the past week, and I wanted to express myself and how I felt about the things I’ve seen. Also, that I wanted to show my support for those who have dealt with prejudice, racism, mental health issues and other important subjects.

As you may have noticed from my blog post yesterday, I saw two or three clips from the interview so it was good to see the whole interview where you are getting the full context to what was being said. I think both Harry and Meghan showed themselves to be honest, decent, kind and compassionate people, both as a couple and individually. I don’t think they wanted to portray anyone in the family in a bad light and rightfully so they were reluctant to give names but remain truthful in the most honest way that they could. Even when they shared about personal relationships with certain family members.

I must admit that I ‘gushed’ when H and M told Oprah that they had a private wedding service three days before because I think that is really sweet, but to me, it shows that they were very willing to follow the traditional protocols for example, the big royal wedding which was for everyone watching. I know that weddings are a stressful time for many couples but where you’ve got the added pressure of the press/the media and the Institution on top of that. Not forgetting the estranged father of Meghan’s betraying her like he did.

It has saddened me that especially Meghan hearing what they have been through. It actually made me feel tearful when Megan said about how she sent suicidal. I’d like to think that talking about mental health is easier than it used to be but then again, people can be very ignorant and harmful. Which is something that we have all seen on social media when a certain journalist/TV presenter who publicly said said “I don’t believe her”, this is extremely harmful to anybody who has severe mental health issues. Every day people preach on about ‘being kind’ yet that always seems to only come into action depending on if somebody is liking somebody (if this makes sense?). In my opinion you should always be kind to people whether you like someone or not. It showed how little we the public actually understand what the protocols are and how things are done in the institution, for eg, when they tried to talk to senior officials but they were refused help and support because of how it would look. I said on my Twitter that the public didn’t even need to know if someone in ‘the family’ needed the support of this kind so whoever refused to get them support didn’t think thoroughly, this made me question that you possibly can’t trust the staff in the institution as they are probably the ones who leak false stories to the press.

I’m glad that they have some family members that they can trust and a supportive, for example the Queen Megan‘s mum and a few other family members. It’s a shame that other family members have not been supportive and that Meghan has been betrayed by her father, who has yet again spoke to the press about her. Even though he admitted he betrayed her but I don’t understand why he’s gone back to the press again after she has said that the press is one of the things that they have been hurt from. I’m sure we can all say that we have all toxic members of our families, no matter who we are! It is very disheartening to learn that Harry’s father, Prince Charles stopped taking his calls especially after they tried to seek help and support.

I particularly enjoyed seeing a glimpse of the home life, with the chickens and little Archie running on the beach just like you would see any other the little toddler doing the same. When they announced that they are expecting a baby girl, even though I don’t know them, it’s lovely news to hear. Harry is living the life that he deserves and what he has always wanted. They are both so strong and I really hope that they find peace, happiness and to live much more freely. I do hope that Harry, his father and brother William relationships’ will improve and that they are more supportive towards them (Harry and Meghan) and try to do better with one another.

On social media, there have been people you are complaining that they are disrespecting the Queen but not once has Harry or Meghan said anything negative about her. They had nothing but lovely things to say about her and they relationship will stay strong as it always has been. I think this goes towards Philip too as they have been checking in on how he’s doing in hospital.

I feel that the majority of what Harry and Meghan have said has mostly been about the press and the institution more so than the family.

I think that Lady Diana will be so so proud of Harry and of the man that he has become today, I’m so many ways, he is just like her, protective, strong and very loving.

I hope that people will stop trying to twist everything that Harry or Meghan have said and making them (in particular Meghan) into villains when in actual fact, they have done nothing wrong. We really shouldn’t believe everything we see and hear. We are taught about history for a reason and that reason is to learn from the past so that we don’t keep making the same mistakes again and again, because history is repeating itself. No one deserves to be hounded, and harassed like they (especially Meghan) have. Imagine how it would feel to you having people spinning lies about you, comparing you to another Duchess, having racist remarks aimed at you and not having the people who promise to protect you, to let you down. It would be awful!

I’m thankful for Harry and Megan for sharing there honest experiences even though I imagine it must’ve been so hard for them to do so especially knowing that people were criticising no matter what. Having to be silent for so long, enduring everything that they’ve had thrown at them, they deserve to finally feel comfortable enough to share their truth. If you could take anything from this and anything from other well-known people and their mental health issues is please be kind and try not to judge something that you don’t know about.

I apologise that this is a long post but thank you for taking the time to read it. I will talk to you all again soon,

Lots of love to you all,

Dinky KT

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Prepping Myself For The H and M Interview

Mon, 08 Mar 2021 03:30:49 GMT

Just A Few Thoughts To What I’ve Seen Online

Hi everyone,

So as the Harry and Meghan interview is being aired in America right now as I type this blog post out, I have a feeling that I will no doubt cry when I watch it on Monday night.

I don't thank it will be an easy watch but indeed a very insightful in interview to see. I think Harry has always been an honest person from all of the times he has spoken to the press, so we have always known that things haven't been as what they seem. I can't see why Meghan would lie because she gave up everything she knew and obviously loved to be with the man that she loves. From all of what we have seen about Charles, he hasn't been the most dutiful or loving father and husband to those he he supposedly loves.Child like the rest of the family has always been too regimented towards the firm.

Now I will write more tomorrow after I have watched the interview and I will I share my thoughts. I have already had lots of respect for Harry and Meghan but I think my respect will go even higher for them after this. At the end of the day, they're just two people who are in love, want to be happy and to feel supported by their families. I have also been working on a poem about Harry and Meghan and I will share that in due course.

Whatever you think of Harry and Meghan, Please remember to be kind and understanding. We do not have to like everyone but we at least need to be kind. Thank you for reading this post and I will talk again tomorrow night,

Lots of love

DinkyKt

P.s. I have typed this through the voice activated word.

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Using My Voice For The Greater Good!!

Sun, 07 Mar 2021 04:09:42 GMT

My Confidence Journey and Using It For The Good.

Hi everyone, how are you all doing?

When I was between the ages of sixteen and nineteen, I was taught that I have a voice. During my time at this college, they helped build up my confidence and encouraged me to use this newly found voice. Even though there were times where I felt like they didn’t understand where I was coming from or liked it, when I expressed myself… I won’t go into the subjects that I spoke up about, or when I was expressing myself as I want this blog post to be mostly positive and encouraging. However, in the educational side of college, things went more positive for me. Throughout my time at this college, I was the secretary of the student council and this definitely helped increase my confidence in myself. I’ve always felt passionately about advocating for other people, even during school until I lost my confidence.

When it was my year’s turn to apply to be on the school council, I applied. I didn’t hear anything back from my head of year teacher, so I decided to hunt him down. He then told me that because of how I am, he didn’t think I was capable. I remember I even questioned him and said that I might not be able to do everything that the other kids could do but I could at least try. So as he could see how disappointed I obviously was, he gave me a badge that said ‘helper’ which made me feel like it was just a bribe or something like that. Looking back, I think I was definitely capable of suggesting ideas, working alongside the other kids in decision making etc rather than ‘helping’ which I see it as more physical.

Another time that knocked my confidence was also at school when I realised that I was not having any support in my main GCSE lessons, and I went to see the head of maths who I actually felt comfortable with, I was told that based on my work, I no longer needed support and I explained that it was the physical support I needed, also that I felt comfortable in his classes when I had him in the previous year. But then he brought the conversation to an end and I felt frustrated. I was struggling in my other lessons too. Looking back, I should have spoken to the lovely lady who had been looking after me in all of my lessons in the previous years and out of class support. I didn’t want to bother her, I knew that there probably wasn’t much she could have done as she was put with the other student who I had previously shared classes with. This really did knock my self esteem.

I’m sorry I said I didn’t want to get negative but I guess you need to understand what caused me to lose my confidence and to hopefully see how I gained it back ever since.

At college, I feel like I made a lot of positive things happen for the students and I don’t mean to sound conceited when I say this. I made a friend ‘N’ who really was like an extension of my arm, whenever we were apart, I was always asked where she was, ha ha! I supported her when she went to see one of the bosses who was in charge of the educational side as from the conversation we had (she used a Dynavox – a talking device where she’d press on the screen what she wanted to say) she was bored and found her classes too easy. By the next term, the teaching groups had begun to change. There was ‘CSL’ (Communication and Supported Living), then there was a middle group (can’t remember the name of this group) and then the top group ‘Vocational Studies’. So the VS, was the group I was in, where it had students that had the most abilities and the CSL group had mostly students who had the most severe disabilities. My friend was in the middle group. So when the changes were made, they added more groups, like Vocational Studies 1 and 2. My friend was put in the 2nd group. Even my best friend ‘L’ was moved to the same group as me, if I remember correctly, but at the time, I hadn’t gotten to know her very well. This was one of my proudest moments to see friends enjoying their lessons more and learning more from them. I also became the editor of the college newsletter. My living area for my first 2 and a half years, I was the secretary for the weekly meetings. They did listen to me when I was struggling in the said living area and requested a move to another living area, where I felt like I was proud for putting myself first for one of the rare times there. Outside of classes and my living area, there were plenty of activities that I was able to do such as filming, editing, archery and even indoor skiing. I kept on about having the chance to try this and maturely accepted any injury if I sustained any but at the time, it was my body and I wanted to try things while I could!

Then when I was at my next college which was local to me, after a challenging first year… I was finding my feet and getting used to the college. Things vastly improved when I started having two wonderful support ladies ‘M’ and ‘J’. They gave me so much time and space to really go after my dreams, and speak up. We became quite the team! I was the winner of two separate awards, one in college and one in the county awards. This really accelerated my confidence and self believe.

Okay, this blog post is proving to be rather long and I don’t really want to apologise for this but if this can help you understand me more or if it encourages you to find your voice then that is wonderful.

I feel so thankful that I have a voice and that I can share it in whichever form I choose to use it , whether it being here, on Twitter, my Facebook page (link is on this site) or on my YouTube channel. There are so many who don’t have this platform. I’m no celebrity with hundreds and thousands of followers but when I count all of my social media site, then I guess I have quite a few. Whether they all take any notice, who knows and I’m just so grateful for those that do take the time to listen and watch.

As I’ve gotten older, I’m understanding myself more and questioning why I am like I am. I consider myself to be like a humanitarian, I care about humans and wanting everyone to have equal rights and to have even just the essentials such as clean water, a roof over a head and to feel safe. A woman to be in charge of her body. A person to be treated fairly no matter the colour of the skin, disability, location, status and so on. We are all important and we all matter. We should all be able to access the same things and opportunities.

A long time ago, when I was in my twenties, I decided to stop buying celebrity gossip magazines… I hated how they would compare whether you were ‘hot or not’ ‘fat or skinny’ etc, and seeing how the press/media hound individuals in the public eye. I will never forget how it felt to see the news when Lady Diana had tragically died… and how the paparazzi would crowd round the scene like vultures. I was just 12 years old and I was shocked by what I saw. It scared me. Knowing that The Duke of Sussex was a month of turning 13 at the time, even back then, I couldn’t begin to imagine how it must have been for him to lose his mum and so publicly. Truly horrific. Ever since, he has rightly hated the press/media for the hounding of her. Now, sadly, all these years later, history is repeating itself. Also, people have learned how Britney Spears has gone through similar. The press/med using people’s struggles against them in the worst ways. Last year, tv presenter Caroline Flack sadly took her own life as a result fr the press/media.

What is it going to take for the press/media to finally realise how their vicious headlines, targeted harassment and the relentless hounding are to people, and how dangerous/harmful they are?!! Another unnecessary death?

I have to use this voice that I have for the greater good. I can’t just sit by and let history keep repeating itself over and over. I will not turn to bullying tactics because that would make me worse than those that we need to get through to. When voices unify, it can become so powerful and incredible!! We need more love, show solidarity and stand up to bullies.

Anyway, if there’s anything you would like me to discuss further on here or on my YouTube channel, then please let me know. I have so much more to say. Thank you for taking the time to read this.

Lots of love to you all,

DinkyKt

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For The Cries of Love

Fri, 08 Jan 2021 03:11:08 GMT

Sharing My Poetry

Hi everyone!!

How are you all doing?? I’m browsing through my posts on here and I’m not sure if I have ever shared any of my poetry on here with you so I thought I’d share one with you.

I have been writing for a long time, ever since I was a little girl, I was always creating stories, and plays. I even tried to drag some of my old school friends to act in my plays in the school playground, ha ha!! I cringe when I look back but I was just so creative!

Then when I started at my residential college after leaving school, I began to write poetry and even wrote a song (without music may I add!) then over the years, since, I have been writing on and off. It is my lifelong dream to get some of my work published which is what I’m working towards. By sharing some of my work, it also gages what type of feedback I might get. I also write on Wattpad... currently working on a few stories there. The newest one I’m working on is about a student who gets involved with her teacher/tutor.

Anyway, here is the poem that I’m sharing with you here. My poetry is semi autobiographical where you get an insight into my mind and how I feel about life.

For the cries of love

For as long as I can remember

From when I was a little girl

I’ve dreamed of something

Something that comes easy

Yet sadly it’s not easy for me

So many times I’ve observed

Hearts that fill, break and mend

For so long I’ve questioned myself

Wondering why not me, not I

Am I unloveable, unworthy of love?

I see it clearly now I’m older

The problem isn’t because of me

My life is destined for many things

Love comes in many different ways

For now I’ll focus on bettering oneself

Live life with a heart full of gratitude

Whether it happens or not, I’m okay

My life is what and how I make it to be

It is full of love, making me feel loveable.

Katie Wearing

28th June 2019

Thank you for reading this post and I hope you enjoyed reading my poem. Please don’t copy it and you may share the whole blog post. Take care everyone and be kind. Make sure that you love even harder right now!! I’ll see you all in my next post.

Love Dinky Katie
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Being Busy Planning and Preparing

Tue, 24 Nov 2020 03:16:33 GMT

What I’ve been doing...

Hi everyone!!

How are you all doing?!? I hope that everyone is looking after one another during these hard times.

You will be very pleased to see that this is a much more positive post compared to my last one. The last one was a difficult one for me to write and share but felt I needed to express my thoughts and feelings. It was in no way any hatred towards anyone in particular but to express how upsetting certain individuals behaviours were.

Anyway, I want to give you all a little update about what is going on with me. I have been taking a bit of time out from filming as I haven’t felt so good in myself both physically and psychologically and I want to produce the best content that I can for you. That isn’t possible when I’m not feeling too well, there has been times where I have pushed through but I really need to keep my strength up.

However, just because my face hasn’t been on a screen in a new video, it doesn’t mean that I haven’t done anything because I have. Dinky has been a busy bee when I’ve felt able to do so!! I really hope that you will enjoy my upcoming videos. I’ll be going back in time and together, we’ll be reminiscing. Hopefully they can help motivate those with disabilities that they can do whatever they can do within the safe boundaries. There’s another video that is in the making which will be good to keep for diary purposes. I also plan on doing a few makeup videos too, however I’m just looking at ideas for them at the moment.

There are other videos in the pipelines but they will be done in due time.

Do you have any thing that you would like to see on my channel... whether it’s to do with having EDS, disability related or anything else that could be fun?!?

Today is the first day that I have actually felt alright, a little tired as I didn’t sleep very peacefully last night... I even woke up thinking someone was trying to get in the front door so went to investigate (whilst deciding whether to take my big bug catcher to whack the intruder with) but it was just the newspaper. It’s quite funny when I think about it. Pixie would have either ran under my covers or gone under the bed, some guard cat she is!! Ha ha!!

I’ve been enjoying watching Strictly Come Dancing, I don’t have a favourite yet. Have you been watching it and who is your favourite? I was watching the Dancing With The Stars until the other week when AJ McLean was voted off. I felt disappointed that they didn’t save him and didn’t like the song choice they had for him to dance the Viennese Waltz to, it was a Queen song which I personally love but not for this dance.

I have been watching a few series on Netflix; Emily in Paris and The Fall. I might talk about these in a video, if you would like to see that?

It’s coming up to Coronation Street’s 60th anniversary and I’m debating on whether to do a video about it, what do you think? For as long as I can remember, I have been an avid fan/viewer of it. Although my memory isn’t that great, I could do some research. Although I like Emmerdale, Neighbours and Home & Away, Corrie is the one I truly love and always try to watch, so won’t be doing any videos on the others!

Anyway, I’m going to go back to listen to my music, well truth be in, I have been listening to it while writing this �� I’ll see you all soon and thank you for taking the time to read this! See you next time. Bye!!

Love Kt, Dinky

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My Thoughts On Certain Individuals’ Behaviour

Thu, 12 Nov 2020 01:22:03 GMT

Where is the compassion, awareness and respect?

Hi everyone!

I hope you are all keeping as well as can be? I know that things are really hard for all of us so I send you lots of love and extra strength during current times.

I actually feel a little uncomfortable writing this blog post and probably won’t even get seen by anyone as I’m sure some may disagree. However, that is your choice to do so but this is how I feel.

This year as a whole has been very different, difficult and drawn-out at times because of Coronavirus. It’s been backbreaking for healthcare workers and key workers having to work so tirelessly throughout the pandemic, dealing with situations that thankfully not all of us have to witness such as watching so many people pass away all alone in their hospital beds, or people alone at home unable to see their loved ones.

In America, there has been over ten million people that have had positive COVID-19 results and sadly, over 237 thousand deaths. Unfortunately these cases are rising every day. Here in the UK, today, we reached over 50,000 Covid-19 related deaths, making us become the first country in Europe to surpass the 50,000. 595 people have died in the 24 hours! The total deaths worldwide is 1.2 million.

Now I’m going to move onto the real topic that I want to talk about and that is how certain music individuals are still holding events during this pandemic. My first reaction was confusion and I remember myself mouthing “what?!? Is this for real?!?” I can’t even comprehend as to why people think it’s a good idea to hold an event with a live audience where it is general admission. For anyone who hasn’t been to see a show of some kind; basically it means you can stand wherever you want within a small area in front of the stage. Believe me when I say that when people get excited and if they have had alcohol, there’s never a chance for people to stay still. In an ordinary typical show, this would be acceptable and normal but we are not in the usual circumstances.

A certain individual had a little show a few weeks ago and five people who were at the same show, same time, were all tested positive for COVID-19. There are photos from said event where not only the fans but also the individuals were not socially distanced or wearing masks. I personally haven’t seen the photos as I don’t want to upset myself by seeing the carelessness and irresponsible of those, it shows how ignorant, selfish and greedy some individuals are. Many artists are hosting live events online and doing individual meet and greets also online where it is safe for everyone. To me it shows disrespect to those that have lost their lives, continue to lose their lives and those who lives are changed for the worse due to the long term effects from the deathly virus.

For those who think Covid-19 is a hoax or is a conspiracy then why on Earth is the whole planet and almost every country has been affected by this? It is real. It is dangerous. Please read the facts and listen to the scientists. Why are my specialist doctors/physiotherapists etc postponing my appointments until next year?? This is really difficult for me with my complex health issues. I know that I’m not the only one enduring this.

Today I saw someone compare going to a live event to going food shopping ��‍♀️��‍♀️ for a starter... getting food is an essential, we need food to live and it’s not something that we choose to do whereas going to a show is irresponsible and a poor choice.

Not every person is symptomatic and this is what is dangerous, we could easily pass on the virus without knowing... one person might be able to fight it but another may not be able to fight it and I for one would hate that on my conscience. I happen to care deeply for others, and want everyone to be safe. When I get sick, it’s very difficult for me to recover, Covid may even kill me. Every time I am sick, I always end up with new health issues and I already have enough to contend with.

Another thing I keep seeing is ‘oh well those who are shielding can just stay at home while we all carry on living!’ And this is the cruelest thing that someone can say. It just shows pure ignorance, selfishness and lack of compassion for other people! I’m sorry that I and many other’s value our lives. I already have enough health issues to contend with, have done since birth and will continue to til I die. Why should I have to stay a prisoner within my own home just so that selfish people can live carelessly, what about my life, is that not important? I’m sure I can speak for many with this paragraph. It’s upsetting that people don’t think my life is worth it or that I don’t deserve to enjoy the bits that I can when I can. The longer people carry on as if nothing is going on, and holding these events, then the longer COVID-19 is going to keep affecting everyone.

I don’t do much socially due to my health but I had a trip to Manchester booked in April for two nights (it’s where I have to travel to as I live far away from any city that holds concerts) but it was postponed to October and then it got rescheduled to next May. Am I sad about it? Yes I am. I build myself up so much when I go on these trips, but I feel it’ll be much better and safer doing it when hopefully the cases/deaths start declining immensely which will hopefully be by next May, fingers crossed! I’m glad that the majority of artists love, care and want their fans, themselves and their crews to be safe. I appreciate it so much and I have huge respect for them.

It upsets me that certain individuals don’t seem to grasp the severity of the pandemic and don’t seem to show any compassion towards their fans. It infuriates me when I see footage of them not wearing masks or being socially distant... either a lack of awareness or total ignorance. I really hope that they do the right thing and either cancel/postpone until next year or do it online.

Anyone who knows me will know how hard this has been for me to write and to share it publicly. I don’t like to speak out against individuals but this is about respect, caring and being responsible. Thank you if you have took the time to read this as I know it is a long read. Please be kind if you decide to respond to this.

Katie ��

My Letter To AJ/Alex McLean

Thu, 15 Oct 2020 02:04:24 GMT

My Letter to AJ/Alex

Hi everyone!!

Writing this blog post feels more like a letter to me as it is something that has been on my mind over the last few days. I’m going to start this off by sharing my thoughts like people would expect a ‘fan’ to write and then delve into a more personal piece as this goes on.

Back in 1993, I was only eight years old so I didn’t really know what my musical tastes were but I did know that I liked the music by the Backstreet Boys and seeing their videos which were iconic!!

It wasn’t until later on in their career when I became a fully invested fan. I had been going through a hard time, I was hospitalised twice within a space of five weeks and I was just so sick! The sickest I’ve ever felt. It was during my recovery time when I came across their song ‘ Incomplete’ on the television. For some reason, it spoke to me as it portrayed exactly how I was feeling inside.

‘Voices tell me I should carry on

But I am swimming in an ocean all alone

Baby, my baby, it’s written on your face.’

I felt so alone, so lost and I didn’t know who I was or what I wanted within both myself and in my life. I had physically lost a lot of weight which isn’t good for me. Soon I found myself listening to the discography of the BSB which there is a lot! They have been around since 1993 which makes me a proud fan! They became like a safe space for me, where I can just lose myself in the beautiful harmonies, sweet melodies and heartfelt lyrics. I found myself loving AJ/Alex’s voice so much, it soothes me and helps me to relax my tensed muscles when I am in pain.

It wasn’t long before I found all the social media platforms for the band and each of the guys solo accounts and I started to see them more than just members of a band but as men, men who have fallen in love and having his own family which made me love the band even more. It meant you got to see a side that you wouldn’t in other circumstances.

This is where I first started to feel like I could resonate with Alex more than any of the others. I’m sure it probably makes me sound strange writing all of this however I believe in showing not only my support but also showing how much someone means to me personally. I want Alex to know and to understand how special he is.

I’m just one person/fan out of so many but I feel so honoured that I have met him twice (I’m so so lucky!) and both times, he made me feel special and worthy. He took his time to talk to me, to listen and he gives me the best hugs! The last time I met him, he greeted me by saying ‘hey beautiful…’ and for someone who struggles with her self-esteem and confidence, it meant the world to me. It didn’t matter that he was a member of the worlds biggest boyband or not, he was a human being who is kind and caring.

He has shown himself to be a true decent human, one who cares, loves his wife like a husband should and adores his little daughters with every fibre of his being. It’s because of him that I came across his wife, Rochelle who is simply beautiful, compassionate, kind, loving and supportive. She is someone who I would love to have as a friend, and like Alex, I’ve had wonderful interactions with her too. It really does make a huge impact when someone is kind, complimentary and takes the time out of their busy schedules to interact with someone who struggles with her confidence and self-esteem, it is wonderful and valued so much.

I admire Alex for his honesty, truth and humbleness. He’s always striving to better himself and to learn from his mistakes… I can’t imagine a better role model than him and especially for his sweet girls. I’m happy to hear that he is finding peace and strength in his journey to improve his life and himself, it encourages me to be the best person I can, not just for me or my family but especially for my four year old niece. I’m continuing to feel proud and always excited to show my support for whatever Alex is doing.

I just wanted to say how adorable Ava and Lyric are!

I have a lot to be thankful to Alex and to Rochelle. I can’t wait to keep seeing Alex progressing through his journey on DWTS and his future projects whether they’re solo or BSB projects. Although we may all be flawed, as long as we are our true authentic selves and striving for bettering ourselves then we really can’t ask for more. Thank you for being you, Alex, for inspiring me, for making me proud, and for entertaining me like you do with your extraordinary talents. Our battles are not there to bring us down when life gets tough whether it’s your addictions or me with my chronic disability but to encourage us to focus on the future, making us stronger and powerful within ourselves. Thank you to them for being brave in sharing their stories, whether good or bad, gives people hope, courage and strength to work and improve on their battles, experiences etc.

The top photo is from my first time meeting Alex and the Boys in 2014 on the IAWLT Tour, in Manchester, UK. The second and third photos are from the DNA Tour in 2019, in Manchester, UK.

Katie (DinkyKt)

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Putting In A New Order

Wed, 22 Jul 2020 21:47:30 GMT

Adding new colours to the collection!

Hi everyone!!

I hope you’re all doing okay. As I have had enquiries about my merchandise, I’ve decided to share what I sell so that everyone can see and has the opportunity to maybe put an order in, if they choose to do so.

I’m giving until Friday before I put in my next order... here are the pics again.

£25 for the bundle which includes the T-shirt (comes in any size & available for both kids and adults!) the notebook, pen and magnetic calendar. The price includes P&P (unless you’re out of the uk then it will be extra) and a small donation goes towards the Ehlers-Danlos Support UK Charity.

£16 for just the T-shirt but like the bundle, the P&P and small donation is included.

I have designed a black T-shirt and a soft grey T-shirt, unfortunately the kids sizes only come in the grey or white. If one of these take your fancy, then please don’t hesitate to contact me.

Thank you for your continued support, it really does mean so much to me and it gives me the chance to support my chosen charity.

Love Katie aka DinkyKt

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Agony Aunt Dinky

Tue, 16 Jun 2020 16:07:35 GMT

Are you looking for advice? Then look no further...

Hi everyone!!

I hope you’re doing good? I’m doing alright, just trying not to think too much. I do much better when I don’t see the negativity on the NEWS, or on social media as it sets my anxiety off and I struggle enough with it already.

Over the years, people have noted how I’m a good listener, and that I’m understanding, showing empathy towards others. I observe the people around me in my life, and even those who I don’t know. So with this, and my own life experiences then I feel like I could be good at giving advice to other people.

An idea that I have had for quite a while is doing an ‘Agony Aunt’ type of video where my subscribers/viewers can send in their questions to me and I will answer them in a video on my YouTube channel. Sometimes we all want some advice about things but don’t feel comfortable in asking someone you know and it’s easier to ask someone else instead.

It can be a male or female, adult or child sending in asking for advice. All you have to do is send me a DM on either my Instagram, Twitter or Facebook pages. If you wish to remain anonymous then please state in your DM. If many of you wish to remain anonymous then I will just blank out the name on all of them.

So over the next few days, I will be waiting to see if I receive any questions for ‘Agony Aunt Dinky’ and please don’t be shy!! I want to be able to help others.

Thank you for reading and I will see you in my next post!! Take care, DinkyKt ��

Blackout Tuesday

dinkykatie@hotmail.com (Katie Wearing) — Tue, 02 Jun 2020 15:42:23 GMT

Black Lives Matter

I understand that I will never understand. However, I stand. I will spend today researching, learning. ��

Reminiscing Back To My Schooldays

Sat, 02 May 2020 22:30:56 GMT

All I Ever Wanted Was To Be Liked And To Make Friends

Hi everyone!

I hope you’re doing well and having a good weekend, keeping busy at home. I’m feeling a little disoriented as I’ve pretty much slept all day and woke up in a bit of pain.

I checked on my Facebook to see what my friends and family have posted, and I saw that my old school friend had shared a photo from our school days with her and another person who in their post, more photos were shared.

I’m not going to say any names but if you read this and think what I’m saying is referring to you then it may just be you. �� My blog and this website is public, and I understand that not everyone wants their name or photos shared publicly.

It was lovely seeing the photos and it made me smile to see those who I went to school with having fun. In my school, when you’re in Year 8 (I think) they have the option of taking you to France for a few days. I remember thinking I would have liked to have gone, but I was anxious about whether the lady who helped me in school was able to go as there was me and another pupil who she looked after, I didn’t know if my parents could afford to let me go and if I was included or not by the others.

A few years ago, some of my classmates had arranged a reunion get together and there were about 19/20 of us altogether. My lovely friend had took me. I remember feeling really nervous beforehand because it had a long time since I’d seen most of them. I was very excited though. I really tried hard to be confident and I think I managed to be. We all had some photos took together.

However it did make me feel a little sad because whilst all the others had shared memories; in school, school trips and out of school. I didn’t really have that with many.

Last night I was chatting with a school friend who I was good friends with, and like she said, I was quiet and shy, until I got to know someone. This was me in school. I’d gone from being quite confident and settled, in a class that I’d spent every day with for five years. I knew everyone, I might have not been good friends with everyone in the class but I knew them. So when I went to senior school, I wasn’t full time at first, it was a bigger school and there were lots of new people. In my form, there was only four others (I think) from my previous school and I hardly saw any of my other friends as we were all split into different forms and classes. I lost my confidence and I felt intimidated, which I think was because all of my closest friends from my old school had made new friends and I didn’t feel like I fitted in. I’ve always found it easy to make friends buy found it hard with the majority of those in my year. I guess this is where my social anxiety started...

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Symptoms of social anxiety

Social anxiety is more than shyness. It's a fear that does not go away and affects everyday activities, self confidence, relationships and work or school life.

Many people occasionally worry about social situations, but someone with social anxiety feels overly worried before, during and after them.

You may have social anxiety if you:

worry about everyday activities, such as meeting strangers, starting conversations, speaking on the phone, working or shopping
avoid or worry a lot about social activities, such as group conversations, eating with company and parties
always worry about doing something you think is embarrassing, such as blushing , sweating or appearing incompetent
find it difficult to do things when others are watching – you may feel like you're being watched and judged all the time
fear being criticised, avoid eye contact or have low self-esteem
often have symptoms like feeling sick, sweating, trembling or a pounding heartbeat (palpitations)
have panic attacks , where you have an overwhelming sense of fear and anxiety, usually only for a few minutes

Many people with social anxiety also have other mental health issues, such as depression , generalised anxiety disorder or panic disorder .

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Towards the end of my school leaving year, I did get close to a group of girls. One of these girls is who I was talking to last night, it was great to catch up with her and to be in contact with her again after such a long time.

After leaving school, I went away to Lancaster to college and I stayed in touch by letters with a good friend from both primary and senior school, she would keep me updated with what was happening. This was great but it made me feel a little sad because obviously we had all moved on and tbh, I didn’t really know some of the people she mentioned but I’m grateful that she wrote to me.

I still have social anxiety and I think I will do for the rest of my life. When I met up with the others a few years ago, I came away feeling happy because the majority that were there made the effort to talk to me, and make sure that I was included. It felt good.

Since, I have met up with a few friends from my year, two or three times and I class another as a close friend of mine. So it has been good to see old photos being shared even if it does make me a little sad for the reasons I’ve said and I think it’s great that I can be myself on my social media which I’d like to think helps others see me for me.

So here’s a �� (even though I don’t drink!) to the 18 years since we left school and let’s maybe try to set up another reunion where more can attend.

Love Katie ❤️

Today’s Gratitude

Thu, 30 Apr 2020 02:39:22 GMT

A Very Poignant Gratitude

Hi everyone!!

So, I have been feeling frustrated at myself and being my own worst critic because I haven’t blogged since last week. I want to follow my lovely friend’s advice and try to think more simply. I hope you’re all doing okay and keeping busy during this unusual period.

In a previous post, I have written about a book that I have started reading and now, I’m 89% of the way through it. It really makes you think. Everyone is taught about what went on during WW2 and how the Jews were treated in the concentration camps but when you read it on a personal basis, it brings it home more. It reminds you that these are human beings just like you and I, living ordinary lives and their lives were literally turned upside down, twice/three time’s over. Things that most of us take for granted, having clean homes, food and not just a piece of bread and watered down soup and covered in lice and goodness knows what else! I’m able to go to bed when I choose, a bed that is comfortable and warm while those innocent people slept on wooden boards with a dirty old rag. Having the option of whether I wanted to read and when as it was forbidden in the camps.

The way they were treated by the guards... spat at, clubbed in the ribs and killed even, just for daring to glance a look at them. They were never called by their names, only a number that was inked on the skin. It’s scary to know that those guards were once ordinary citizens living mundane jobs, many who were young and who once strolled side by side those who they treat like a piece of dirt... you just never know what the person next to you is truly capable of until they brainwashed and have the power.

There is a line in the book... ‘...as they were watching me leave... they were smiling! Can you believe it? They were doomed to die, and they were smiling.’ This made me feel sad but extremely thankful that I know that I am in a safe home and when I wake up, my parents will be here and alive. We don’t have to feel afraid. To read a young girl say this saddens my heart knowing that she never saw her mother or sister ever again. It’s incomprehensible. Her mother and sister must have felt like they were finally free from everything that they had endured and no longer would they had to suffer.

No one should feel afraid, alone, or be relieved to be no longer suffering and it makes me feel so grateful that I’m not in this predicament. It breaks my heart when I see people suffering whether it’s their home life, suffering at the hands of evil or ill health and selfishly, I just want to eradicate suffering. I’m thankful that I am able to be in contact with my loved ones and hopefully be there for them.

Anyway, I feel like I’ve gone a bit deep and possibly a little sad but I’m so thankful for being fortunate in life, having what I have in life, a nice clean, safe home and food. Being able to express myself and to do as I please when I choose. Thank you for reading this blog post and I hope you will be back to see my next post soon. Take care and stay safe.

Love Katie aka DinkyKt ❤️

A Fulfilling Day Six

Fri, 24 Apr 2020 00:43:15 GMT

Read On To Learn About My Day and What My Daily Gratitudes Are!

Hi everyone!!

Here I am again, talking to you in this blog post, and I hope you’re all doing okay? I’m feeling fairly positive in my life today which I definitely feel thankful for. I know that some days are just alright, then you get days that are truly awful and then you get days that are wonderful where you don’t want it to end. Our outlook on a day can vary due to something that has happened/is happening, or even just by a state of mind. I think it really does help if you can find the goodness in each day no matter how small it may seem as it can give you a glimmer of hope and strength.

The first thing that I’m feeling thankful for is that while we are on lockdown, I’m finally being able to do the things that I’ve wanted to do such as starting my new Makeup Artist Diploma course. For the last few years, I have been wanting to do a makeup course and I finally have found one that is suitable for me and my needs. I did see a course at a local college a few years ago that was a one day thing but it was too late by the time I saw it. Then it wasn’t on when I last looked into it so patiently, I have been waiting to find another one. This one that I have started is by New Skills Academy which is based in the UK and it is all online based and is actually only 20 hours long, but it doesn’t matter how long it takes me as I can pace myself as much as I need to. I have already completed the first module which I’m proud of myself.

I’m feeling thankful that I’m able to see my friends doing well in the things that they are doing, seeing them happy and enjoying whatever it is they’re doing, makes me feel happy for them. I love to see what they’re doing, and seeing their progress coming along.

I know I haven’t listed three of my gratitudes but I’ve decided to write this blog post over two days instead of just one day.

Today has been a busy day for me and to tell you the truth, I feel completely done in. Exhausted and my troublesome areas are not playing fair on me. However I can’t complain because it’s been a lovely day. Me and my dad had been busy doing something which will be revealed soon in an upcoming video, the outcome was fab and I’m so thankful for my dad helping me.

Then my sister picked up some lady things for me and kindly bought me some of my favourite chocolates as well. We were talking to her through the window and it was so good to see her in person. Again, I’m very thankful.

I’m in gratitude for my mum just being lovely company, showing me what knitting she’s been working on and talking about some telly shows that we’ve been watching together when we eat our meals.

I’d love to know what you have been thankful for, please do share them with me. Anyway, I’m going to leave my writing for today and hopefully post again soon. Thank you for reading and take care. Stay safe at home!!

Love Katie aka DinkyKt ❤️

Day Five of My Daily Gratitudes

Tue, 21 Apr 2020 00:19:43 GMT

What Are My Gratitudes Today?

Hi everyone!!

Welcome to my daily gratitudes blog post which is now day five and again, I think I missed yesterday but that doesn’t really matter. It’s when I do do them is what matters! Today has been a nice day, just like yesterday. The one thing I was grateful for yesterday is being able to see some of my family on video chat. ��

I can’t believe it’s been a week since I spoke to my GP, time flies, especially when you get the days mixed up like I do, which I did before the lockdown anyway. It’s just harder now because as I watch some of the soaps on the telly, it helps me to differentiate the days by what is on each particular day. It’s not enough for me to remember what day it is by looking at my calendar on my phone or on the kitchen wall, as watching the telly is visual. Thankfully my pain levels have eased a little at times but it’s still there, and sadly it will always be there for me. At least I know I’m alive by feeling the pain and it makes me stay determined to keep doing what I’m doing and working on making my goals come true.

Anyway, I’m going off track so let’s get back to talking about my daily gratitudes.

My first thing that I’m grateful for is my little niece, Ciara. We’ve all been talking on FaceTime and I love seeing them on my screen. You never know what Ciara is going to say or do, and she can be very entertaining whether it’s her showing us her doing some yoga or what she’s playing with. It’s definitely good to keep connected during this lockdown.

You might laugh when I tell you what my second gratitude is for and that’s something simple such as cheese on toast. When my dad last went food shopping, he brought some of the ready sliced cheese and it was perfect. I struggle with cheese when there’s too much or too thickly sliced with my tummy. It makes it so much more even and definitely saves times for my dad. I managed to eat all of it which is good for me. It’s definitely the simple things in life!!

I don’t know who knows that today celebrates the Backstreet Boys 27th year of being together as a band, 20th April 1993. You might not even really care and that’s fine but I do, and this is my blog after all. Ha ha!! Whilst growing up, I wasn’t as invested in them as much as I am nowadays. Happy Birthday Boys!! I’m so thankful that I’m a part of their fandom who many of the fans welcomed me into it with open arms. BSB have helped me through some difficult times in my life, their music and personal experiences spoke to me, and helped me to see what I’m capable of in life. We all go through tough times whatever they may be but you will always find a way through. I will forever cherish the memories that I have from my time on their last two tours which will forever be with me. I’m extra thankful for AJ and his wonderful wife, Rochelle who have personally helped me along a few times.

What are you thankful for today? I wonder what tomorrow will bring, thank you for reading this blog post and I hope you will see my next post soon. Take care.

Lots of love to you all,
Katie aka DinkyKt ❤️

Day 3 of My Daily Gratitudes

Sun, 19 Apr 2020 02:23:12 GMT

What Are My Daily Gratitudes Today?

Hi everyone!!

Firstly, I would like to apologise for not doing this yesterday, but I’m back again writing today’s list. To many of you out there reading this, you might think that my gratitudes are silly or mundane but what may be insignificant to you could be a big thing for me so please bear this mind.

I’m not going to write too much today as I’m struggling with tiredness now as I’ve had a bit of a busy day. I spent a short time learning a few moves of Tai Chi with thanks to my uncle for sharing a short video of himself teaching his students (he’s a Tai Chi instructor). I truly hope he’s continues to share more little videos so that I can learn at home , at my own pace. Then I got myself ready for filming, and then spent the next hour and half filming for my next two videos. Throughout the rest of my evening, I was busy working on the editing as it is time consuming. Today it’s also the first day where I have been the most active this week since my spine/chest issues started getting worse.

The first thing that I’d like to show my gratitude for is that I have my smartphone which means that I can buy and download many different books. Sadly, I tend to struggle holding real books now. The latest book that I’ve purchased is The Librarian of Auschwitz which was recommended to me by my friend on Twitter. I was curious about this book as I’ve already read The Tattooist of Auschwitz which is a brilliant book to read. Moving just like this current one I’m reading is. It’s heartbreaking to read and learn what all those innocent people went through during WW2. My phone enables me to do other things such as photography, filming/editing and playing some games. It’s also where I write here from.

The second gratitude I have is for my grey loungewear pjs. I was given these for Christmas just passed and I love them so much!! I think they’re my favourite item of clothing. They’re soft, comfortable and so snuggly to wear without feeling like a hot water bottle. They have a zebra head on the front and have a hoodie. I wear them for bed too. We tried to look for another pair but they didn’t have any. If anyone knows if and when Debenhams start selling kids pjs/lounger wears that are like these, please let me know!!

My third and final gratitude goes to my first college BC that I went to after leaving school because they encouraged and helped me find my voice. When I first started there, I was so shy and had no confidence but it wasn’t long before I started coming out of my shell fully. I’d like to think that I use my voice in a positive manner... whether it’s on here, my Facebook pages, Instagram or on my YouTube videos. If by me sharing my story, my experiences can help another feel less alone, feel more confident and raise awareness at the same time, then I feel really happy and know that I’m doing something right in my life. Although while I appear confident on the places I’ve mentioned above, in real life situations, I struggle with social anxiety and general anxiety, but this is because the above are my safe places to fully express myself.

I hope that tomorrow I will be sharing three more things that I’m grateful for and it’s definitely a wonderful thing being able to show and share what my gratitudes are for each day. Positive thoughts to hopefully fall asleep to! What are you grateful for, today? Thank you for reading and I hope you will see my next post soon, take care and keep safe at home!!

Love Katie aka DinkyKt ❤️

Day 2 of Three Things I’m Grateful For

dinkykatie@hotmail.com (Katie Wearing) — Thu, 16 Apr 2020 23:56:06 GMT

Continuing My Gratitude List

Hi everyone!!

So today, we’re on day two of my daily gratitude blog post and again, like yesterday, I’ve had a good thorough thinking session about what I’m grateful for today. It doesn’t matter how big or little the gratitude is as long as I’m feeling the gratitude, just like it will be for you.

Today, I have felt alright compared to yesterday, as long as I keep using what I need to ease my pain and struggles. I’ve pretty much spent the day watching the telly but my appetite hasn’t been great. This is something that I’m not going to stress myself about and I just have to hope that I will eat a bit more tomorrow instead.

The three things that I’m grateful for today are as follows:

1. My sister for enabling me to be able to make a special something happen which I might update you on once it’s all sorted. It’s definitely a feel good thing though.

2. Yesterday, I wanted to share some news but I had already listed my three gratitudes for the day so here I am, telling you about it now. Locally to where I live, there’s a Safari Zoo and as everything/everyone is on lockdown, the zoo has had to close until it’s safe again. Many of you who follow me and know me personally know that I have a special fondness for zebras. So, with thanks to the zoo, I’ve been able to adopt my own zebra. I look forward to hearing from it and finding out it’s name, etc. By me buying this adoption, it is enabling the zoo keepers to look after the zebras and all the other wonderful animals that live there. I’m awaiting to hear from the zebra and I will let you know all about it when I do hear from it.

3. I’m extremely thankful for all the NHS, and all of the key workers out there. You all do an amazing job, putting your heart and soul into what you do. I’m proud to have done my clap with the pan and spoon. Thank you!

What are your gratitudes for today? What do you think of mine so far? I thank you for reading this blog post and I will see you in my next post, take care!!

Love Katie aka DinkyKt ❤️

Three Things I’m Grateful For

dinkykatie@hotmail.com (Katie Wearing) — Thu, 16 Apr 2020 01:09:19 GMT

Starting a new daily gratitude list

Hi everyone!!

I’ve been really inconsistent with my writing on here which isn’t what I planned for, when I first set up this blog and website. If you follow my Twitter feed and my DinkyKts EDS Diaries Facebook pages’ feed, then I’m sure you will be fairly up to date with what’s going on in my life. It really does feel good to be writing here again after such a long period, but if you’re a fan of my writing, then I’m sure you’ll be pleased to know that I have been busy doing other forms of writing; working on different novels on my Wattpad account and in my personal notebook where I write poetry. Just like here in this blog, I haven’t wrote any poetry in a long time and I’m happy to be feeling inspired to start writing them again. I have a folder that has a collection of my poetry that I’ve worked on over the years with the first poem in it that was written back when I was around sixteen years old. I’ve always been a determined person and if I want to do something then I will work my hardest to make it happen, even though a lot of my dreams and ambitions have changed due to health reasons, there’s nothing to stop me from achieving the goals that are reachable. My writing is one of those goals that I will get completed and hopefully will continue to do so as my life progresses.

Right now, the world is in crisis and my heart breaks knowing that there are so many people (and animals) are suffering and I continue to hope that everyone that has personally been affected by the pandemic makes a speedy recovery, and my heart is with all of you especially to those who have lost those who they love. When it first started happening, I was struggling with severe anxiety and as I was seeing more and more people suffering every day, it was getting too much and affecting my mental well-being, so I’ve had to distance myself from hearing/watching about it as often. Some might say that I’m being ignorant but I already struggle with severe anxiety and my mental well-being is more important to me at this moment. It’s one of the things that distresses me so much is seeing people (and animals) suffering, and I’m too much of an empath. We all have to do what is right for ourselves.

During this time I want to focus on gratitude and it is something that I hope to continue once everything is improving in the world. On a daily basis, I strive to think positive at the end of each day and to show my gratitude to whatever I choose on the particular day, whilst making sure I go to sleep with a heart full of positivity. Some people may prefer to list their gratitudes earlier on in the day and I think whatever is best for the person themselves.

Today my three gratitudes are for:

For my parents who are there to help look after me, without them in my life, things wouldn’t be like they are. They make sure that I’m fed, help me with my medicines etc and I enjoy our time watching the telly, especially as my dad is unable to work during this pandemic so I’m seeing more of him through the week.

My lovely friend for taking time out of her day to message me and check in on me. It’s been a while and it definitely helped brighten up my day. I love my friends with all of my heart.

I’m thankful for having a wonderful GP and Rheumatologist Doctor who both look after me. They always take the time to listen and to try to help me as much as they possibly can. Even when all they can do is treat me the symptomatic way meaning to make sure that I’m as a comfortable as can be and easing my symptoms. Since the end of last week, I have been struggling with a lot of pain, breathing difficulties and not a lot of sleep. Now I’m taking my medicine more regularly, taking my inhaler as much as I need it and having my anti-inflammatory pain relief gel applied to my back area.

I would love to know what you are thankful for for today? I wonder what I’ll be showing gratitude for next time. Thank you for reading and I will see you in my next post, take care everyone!

Katie aka DinkyKt ❤️

Let’s Talk About Serial Killers

Tue, 08 Oct 2019 19:47:59 GMT

Hi everyone!!

There’s a few in my life who know I’m fascinated by serial killers and I’ve been recently triggered my interest by watching my friends’ new YouTube channel. His channel ‘Bizarre Bazaar’ is really up my street. I hope he doesn’t mind me talking about his channel (must check!) as if you are interested in serial killers then I’m sure you’ll enjoy it too.

So far he’s talked about memorabilia that people have kept from serial killers, different serial killers and becoming pen pals with those on death row. This is something that I actually thought about doing quite a few years ago but that was it, just thoughts. It has piqued my interest again but there are a few issues that I would have to find out first but that’s something I could ask my friend about. Would you be pen pals with a death row inmate?

It’s common knowledge that a lot of horror films are based on true life serial killers. I’ve seen a few films for example; the Aileen Wuornos, the new Ted Bundy (Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile), Too Young To Die (although she only killed one person) and more. There are more that I’d like to see such as Nightstalker about Richard Ramirez.

I would like to talk more in detail about the serial killers that are less known, either here on my blog or on my YouTube channel - which would you prefer, or both maybe?

I thought it’d be perfect timing to do a series on serial killers seeing as it’s Halloween at the end of this month (October 2019) as more than often, the crimes are gruesome and sickening. What are your thoughts?

I hope to hear from you soon, and thank you for reading this blog post.

Love Katie aka DinkyKt ❤️

My Thoughts On Bohemian Rhapsody

Fri, 04 Oct 2019 22:27:34 GMT

This is a subtitle for your new post

Hi everyone!!

In this blog post, I wanted to write my thoughts about the new Freddie Mercury film ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’. From the moment I saw the trailer for Bohemian Rhapsody the movie, I have been wanting to watch it. It’s been almost a year since it was released and I’ve only just seen it.

I can’t remember when I first heard Queen but I was a child and I enjoyed their music. The music videos were visual and interesting. I know that the lyrics don’t always make sense but that’s a part of the fun, the mystery and the self interpretation.

The second I pressed play to watch this movie, I knew it was best to keep an open mind as biopic’s can not meet everyone’s expectations with comparison against the person who was playing the character of said person. However, I’m impressed with Rami Malek’s interpretation of the late Freddie Mercury. I can imagine it being extremely difficult to play such a role as Freddie. I hadn’t seen Malek in anything previous so I didn’t know what to expect with his performance in the film. Malek really spent time perfecting Mercury’s mannerisms and it’s clear to see in the film.

Although it doesn’t go into great detail about his, it does give you a glimpse of what Freddie was like. I’m sure most people had an idea of what Freddie was like; flamboyant, risk-taker and complex.

There are a few things that I thought were incorrect with some of the story. First with how Queen actually formed. The guy that played Staffell left the band ‘Smile’ amicably and that he knew Mercury from the art class that they studied together. In the film, it showed that the band hadn’t performed together in quite some time but in actual fact, they finished their The Works Tour which I think dated from August 1984 to May 1985 and this was less than two months before Live Aid. Then the diagnosis of Mercury’s AIDS was actually after Live Aid. I know that they have to fit so much in just over two hours and to make it as enjoyable and to fit the narrative of the plot.

Overall, I feel the film gave of a glamorous, wild, and often a lonely feeling which I think it’s quite like Freddie. I thoroughly enjoyed watching and appreciate the film. I’m glad that both May and Taylor were producers as they knew Mercury like no one else. Would I recommend the film? Yes, I would.

Thank you for taking the time to read this and I hope you enjoyed reading what my thoughts are on this film. I’m in thoughts about whether I want to write and share my thoughts about other new films such as A Star Is Born, Wickedly, Evil: the Ted Bundy film, Cinderella and others that I have yet to see. I hope that you will keep a lookout for my next blog post soon. You can follow my different social media feeds from Twitter and my Facebook page on here, if you don’t yet follow them individually.

Love Katie aka DinkyKt ☺️❤️

Kindness Over Toxicity

Mon, 30 Sep 2019 14:21:18 GMT

This is a subtitle for your new post

Hi everyone!!

There has been a lot of talk about a subject that I will never truly understand and I’m guessing I’m just trying to fathom it out.

There are a few toxic people out there who will say and do whatever to be pure nasty. You can call them narcissistic, a troll or just plain deplorable.

It actually saddens and hurts my heart that some people can be so full of hatred towards another person. Even worse when their chosen target is innocent and hasn’t done anything to deserve such treatment.

Their words are full of venom and hatred. Words that could destroy someone especially someone who suffers with low self-esteem or mental health issues. Their lies could destroy someone’s livelihood, their relationships with their loved ones/colleagues, even get them in trouble with the law depending on what the lies are.

I feel like a lot of it is self reflection of their own inner demons, projecting their wrong doings and twisting everything to make their target look like someone that they’re not. This is also signs of someone that knows that they’re the wrongdoers and that they enjoy this projection to make themselves feel big and mighty.

A narcissistic person will spend their lives blaming everyone else for their misfortunes, they have excuses for everything especially if they’re caught out making mistakes and will not once put themselves in their targets’ shoes because it is all about them, and how it affects them. They will detract whatever they say and do if they don’t hear or see something that they expect and will kick up a storm (so to speak). To bully and demean another person is unacceptable. I have nothing but pity for these type of people. I find that those who do shout out and try to publicly put someone down, are the ones who have something to hide or are full of guilt especially if they did something wrong.

I have always gone by the rule of if you dislike someone then you don’t have to engage with them in any way or you remain to be civil depending on the circumstances. This doesn’t make you two faced but it does makes you more mature. Then you move on with your life. The best advice I have is to try and ignore anything that a perpetrator may be saying and doing, they are wanting a reaction but the majority of them will continue to keep biting especially if you react. It’s not easy. Please report anything and everything if you are being targeted whether it’s on social media, the police or just someone you know and trust. There’s nothing worse than being the target of someone who is full of hatred. Remember that more than likely, you have done nothing wrong to deserve such treatment. You will get through it. I suggest you watch The Odd One Out which is a documentary that Jesy Nelson (from Little Mix) helped make for BBC ONE about the effects of trolling, and feeling like you’re not worth it etc. It’s a brilliant watch although sad because of what Jesy went through and how it affected her.

We are all stronger than we think we are, and we should be always be kind to one another!! Don’t ever let someone get you down and don’t believe a word that they say about you because they are wrong, they’re looking for attention and they are the ones who are not worth it... or your tears. Hold your head up high!!

Thank you for reading and if you have been affected, please note my heart is with you.

Katie aka DinkyKt ❤️

My First Day at Beaumont College

Tue, 24 Sep 2019 00:27:22 GMT

This is a subtitle for your new post

Hi everyone!!

I thought I’d dedicate this post to a particular time in my life... I didn’t even realise what date it was until it came up on my Twitter that it was almost the anniversary of the Twin Towers tragedy and it got me reminiscing. You might ask why, what’s so special about this date, well let me tell you why. ☺️

Eighteen years ago, back when I was just sixteen years old and I was starting a new chapter in my life. I was having my first day at Beaumont College.

My family had left to go back home which was a very strange feeling to me. I was extremely excited but I was almost nervous, a part of me was scared that I wouldn’t like it or make friends. Growing up, I was used to being away from home as I spent much of my childhood in and out of hospitals; both locally and in Manchester. What was different about this time was that it had been my choice to enrol at a college away from home, away from all those I knew and loved. The thing was, when I was in hospital, the nurses and doctors were familiar to me. I had met a few people on my many visits to the college, not many will know this but I visited B.C six times before I started and asked several times if I could stay over so I could get a real feel of the place but they didn’t offer it... which is funny because after I had started, they started having prospective students staying a night, ha ha!! I was a little annoyed but it was too late and I was now a student living there.

I hadn’t met my key worker until I started as the one that I was going to have went on maternity leave but when I did meet Laura, I liked her straight away. It actually made me proud that my key worker was the area co-ordinator, thinking why I felt proud, I don’t know why. I can’t remember the other staff who were on that day in West Wing.

West Wing is the name of the area that I was residing in, it is like a little flat and there was seven girls of us each had a room to ourselves. There is a living room, kitchen/diner and own bathroom. When I started there were 3 members of staff on each team, A, B and C. In W.W, they were all female and all ages. There was only me and one other girl who were first years in W.W. I was the first girl to stay in W.W as the other girl didn’t start until the Wednesday so it gave me chance to become familiar with the area and the staff. It was a lovely week, and it was very relaxed.

My room was a decent size, it had a big window which overlooked the gardens at the rear of the college. In my room, there was the wardrobe and a built-in sink with a mirror at the back of it. My parents helped me make it my own and made it homely. I don’t know if the staff will remember all of my belongings that I brought with me, ha ha! There were a lot!

The rest of the day is kind of blurry, I think it was the reality of me actually being here away from home had started to sink in and I was just getting used to my new surroundings. I think I had a fleeting moment where I wanted my parents to turn back round but one thing about me is that I’m not a quitter. The least I could do was give it a chance and that I certainly did.

Would you like to read more about my time at B.C? What would you like to know about it?

Thank you for reading and I hope to hear your thoughts.

Love from Katie aka DinkyKt ❤️

New Dinkykts EDS Diaries T-Shirts

Sun, 14 Apr 2019 00:22:22 GMT

World of Dinky Merchandise

Hi everyone!!

Last year, I launched my new T-Shirt across my social media but as I was unable to write about it on here, I feel it’s time for me to talk to you in further detail.
It ties in perfectly with the design of my Dinkykts EDS Diaries logo as for some time, I have been unhappy with how the one I had looked. To me, it looked unprofessional and outdated. I wanted the logo to be taken more seriously.
Now talking about the T-Shirt, it had been a while since I last designed a new design and I was struggling to come up with ideas that both males and females would like. Me and my cousin had been talking about what I was hoping to try and do, with both my logo and T-Shirt. So when I next saw him, he started showing me what he'd so far come up with after taking on board with what I was wanting. Then after a few tweaks, I saw the end result of the logo and not surprisingly, I loved what he had done. It was exactly what I was wanting and even better than I planned in my head!
As I love the logo so much, I decided to try it on a T-Shirt to see what it would look like and after some playing around on Vistaprint over a few weeks, I finally found the look I envisioned. It's suitable for all ages and sexes, and it looks pretty smart. I have already sold four and that was straight away after launching them!

They are available to order;
ADULTS - £16
CHILDREN - £14

I know there isn't much difference in the price but I have worked hard to make it that they're priced fairly. I have the costs of making them, postage from Vistaprint, small portion of the price goes towards Ehlers-Danlos Support UK charity and postage/packaging is included. They can be sent to wherever you are, whether that's here in the UK, USA or Europe etc.

You can pay via paypal;
dinkykatie@hotmail.com

I am already looking into expanding to the merchandise... starting with magnetic calendars, notebooks. If you have any ideas or a special request then please don't hesitate to contact me.

Please make sure you follow me on www.facebook.com/DinkyktsEDSDiaries to keep up with my daily journey on having E.D.S. I don't always post but I try to upload an update every few days at least.

Thank you for reading and I will post again soon
Katie :) <3

Are Disabled People Disturbing??

Sat, 13 Apr 2019 23:45:08 GMT

My Thoughts...

Hi everyone!

Most recently I came across on someone’s twitter feed something that was shared. Intrigued, I decided to click on the link and it was the person (Simon) who is a part of the Ability Access group which encourages people to talk more about disability and in particular a positive manner and a member of staff from Facebook’s Ad’s Managing team in a phone call discussion.

He phoned Facebook as one of his posts had been removed. It featured a photo of a beautiful woman who had her leg amputated as a result from the Alton Towers incident a few years ago, and she is nude. However, you don’t see anything of her body from how she is posed. The lady from Facebook actually said “you will have to understand that some people see disability as disturbing, you will have to think about it like that”. The lady then went on to say “I have never come across a page that promotes disability”. As you can imagine, Simon was shocked. I was shocked at hearing the lady say what she said. I find it heartbreaking that someone could say that about a person. All of my life, I have struggled with my self image and only recently have started to slowly accept how I look, but perhaps if someone who is younger or more vulnerable in a sense it could be harmful. What is so disturbing about seeing a disabled body? Yes, I have a disabled body, but I am still a human being and I worthy. Personally, my body is unique. I have a deformed spine, I’m small and I’m extremely thin but I am more than what you see. I am me. I can still look cute. Yes, I can even look hot and I can feel amazing especially if I’m wearing an outfit that I love!! Maybe I’m being a little sensitive since only recently I’ve been called things that aren’t nice, which are based on how my body is. It did knock my confidence and self worth but thankfully I have good, kind and caring people around me. Also I do realise that their comments/body shaming is a reflection of how they feel within themselves which is obviously of a low opinion. There is nothing ugly about my body or anybody else’s body, for that matter.

I’m glad that Facebook have since apologised but I think the hurt has still been caused to people. I don’t think anyone has the right to call another person especially someone who has a disability as disturbing, it is cruel and very unnecessary.

I for one am glad that there are groups and individuals who spend their time in promoting positivity and self love within the disabled community, and their peers/family etc. We see more than enough of photos with famous people (no need to name as I’m sure many of us can think of who as an example), so why can’t we see more of disabled people in the same way. What’s the difference between a famous person posing in a particular pose and a disabled person posing in the same way? All I see is a human body. We shouldn’t be removed or hidden because of our bodies that may look different. At the end of the day, we are people. We are most certainly not disturbing.

Thank you for reading and I will post again soon.

Katie ☺️❤️

International Women’s Day

Sat, 09 Mar 2019 00:20:57 GMT

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#internationalwomensday

To all the movers, the makers, the hustlers, the shakers

To those who shout loud, who stand strong, and when needed those who quietly move on.

To those who build empires, move mountains, push boundaries, raise babies, make memories and refuse to take no for an answer.

You are the ladies paving the way for a new generation who are ready to play.

Stand tall and stand proud for all that you are,

Not what media says you should be or could be.

But the you that is here, standing now and amazing.

From Katie ☺️❤️

A handy bag review with Moore Sewing.

Mon, 04 Feb 2019 20:44:50 GMT

Hi everyone!

I’m back with my second blog post of 2019 and I’m writing something a little different to what I normally write but this is something I’m excited about. In my old blog, I did write a few reviews and as always, I talked about things that I found interesting.

During my absence from here, I have been busy chatting with a few ladies who inspire me and I hope they will inspire you too. For as long as I can remember, I have always admire and have had huge respect for those who follow their dreams, and slowly turning them into reality. The First Lady I would like to introduce you to is Becky who makes custom designed bags and accessories.
Here follows a chat that I have had with her about her business:

What is the craft that you do?

I make customized bags, purses and accessories.

Clients can choose;

- the type of bag they like
- an exterior fabric
- a lining and any accessories

Allowing them to design a customized product that expresses their individual tastes and personality.

When did you start doing it?

I started creating hand sewn cotton bags and purses for friends and family in mid 2015. Interest grew quickly along with requests for more complex products, so I began using a sewing machine early in 2016. Recently I purchased an industrial sewing machine, allowing for the creation of higher quality bespoke products.

What made you start?

I longed for a handbag, that mirrored my personality and provided all the features I wanted/needed - after scouring the shops and the internet, I came to the disappointing conclusion that it didn’t exist. So thought - I know I’ll make it myself.

My auntie is a keen sewist, so I pestered her for advice, which she kindly provided and got me started. Now I have a new bag especially for me every couple of months and a raft of other bags that I’ve sold to loving owners.

Where did you learn?

As mentioned earlier, my aunt helped me get started. She gifted me my first pattern which was if I remember rightly The Window Shopper Tote, by Patterns by Mrs H.

The rest I learnt from YouTube along with a lot of trial and error, I learn something new with every bag and strive to make every product I make better than the last.

Who inspires you?

There are so many, I’m not sure where to start. Obviously my aunt, not only has she been incredibly kind in sharing her knowledge, she also produces really beautiful bags - she does however keep them all to herself!

There’s also a lovely American sewist who regularly posts on Facebook and offers lots of amazing tips and tricks on creating stunning bags. Seeing her work gave me the confidence to start selling the bags I have created myself.

Also the countless pattern and fabric designers such as Blue Calla, Tula Pink, Swoon Patterns, Alison Glass and Bagstock. Their bold and beautiful fabric designs and complex bags and accessories patterns, have afforded me the opportunity to turn my hobby into a living.

What are your goals?

To continue to;

- Improve my skills
- Grow my business - I would love some day to employ fellow sewists, so they can also enjoy making a living from their passion.
- Perhaps open a brick and mortar shop someday.
- Continue to make beautiful bespoke bags that hopefully bring a little bit of joy to their owners.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years time with your crafting?

In 5 years time I would like to employ a team of sewists to work with me on a range of projects.

Within 10 years I would like to have a successful brand with several shops on the high street. Maybe a little bit ambitious but everyone has to start somewhere.

What has been your favorite item that you have made so far?

A beautifully bright and colorful mini messenger for a charity auction.

What advice do you have for anyone who’s thinking about starting out?

You may feel disappointed with your first few makes, keep trying your skills will only improve with each item you make. If you could only see some of my early creations, you would see that no one is born knowing how to create something functional but also pretty.

I would like to thank Becky for letting me chat to her and sharing it on here with all of you, I sincerely hope that she has all the success that she deserves. I absolutely love and adore the zebra bag that she designed and created for me and my wheelchair, it is such good quality. Many bags I have tried on my wheelchair have not lasted as long or as well as the bag she has made, and I’m sure it will last me for quite some time. Definitely one of my all time favourite gifts that I have received and I definitely recommend all of you to check out her instagram, and contact her if you want to know any more. She will be happy to answer any queries you have.

To find Becky on Facebook, follow the link below:
https://www.facebook.com/MooreSewingR/

Thank you all for reading this post and keep a look out for my next lady guest!!

Katie. X

Happy 2019! - General Update.

dinkykatie@hotmail.com (Katie Wearing) — Sat, 02 Feb 2019 20:50:10 GMT

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‘Hi everyone!

I’m finally uploading this brand new blog post and I know it was July when I last wrote here. I am sorry it’s been so long and I really wanted to update this site for such a long time but I’ve not had any luck in logging in to edit etc. Even my cousin who is quite savvy with computers and apps etc has struggled but I have asked my trusted friend to upload this for me on her laptop. So, how have you all been?
I’m not even going to attempt to fill you in on everything that I’ve been doing since my last post but you can click on the social media icons on the main page of the site to catch up on everything related to me.
I can’t believe it’s 2019 and I will be going into my 34th year of living! I’m thankful that I’m still here and alive. This year I am determined to complete some of my goals and I’ll be okay if I don’t manage to achieve them all because I can only do what I can do.
I’m currently in the works of doing some EDS/Disability Awareness campaigning which I’m quite excited about but being honest, I’m also terrified! Speaking out in groups has always been an issue that I struggle with but this will all be on my terms. As long as everything is planned and I know what to expect from it (living with anxiety and panic disorder really does kick my butt!) then hopefully I should be okay. I can’t cope with not knowing what is happening and I have to be aware of whatever it is that’s going on hence why I will ask like a hundred questions! Ha ha much to others’ annoyance!!
The last few weeks I have been struggling with self esteem and my sleeping pattern has been terrible. It’s been a bit of a battle trying to keep my body going at times but as always, you’ll see me with a smile and my makeup looking pretty. I know those who are very close to me who I talk to daily, have been stars. When I’m sure I’ve been difficult, anxiety ridden and emotional making them feel like giving up on me, I wouldn’t blame them tbh but they have stuck by my side. I would be lost without them. I may have driven them crazy but they have kept me sane. I trust them so much and I love spending time talking to them and playing PUBG with them. They’re both my best friends and I love them both. One of those people I can’t wait to see them again after such a long time and the other, I’d love nothing more than to meet them one day. I place my gratitude towards my other friends too, especially for checking in on me every now and then.
I cannot express how thankful I am for my family for always being there, looking after me and doing what you do for me. Many thanks go to my little niece who I love and adore so dearly. She makes me want to be the best auntie I can be for her and make her proud of me.
I do hope that 2019 is going to be the best year yet, and not too much health issues arising. If they do, I will face them the way I know how and get through it. One thing that I do have to look forward to is seeing the Backstreet Boys again, ten days after my birthday!! I’m awaiting for the vip packages upgrades tonne released then I know I will be meeting them again. As much as I am trying not to let it creep into my thoughts, I do find myself getting anxious about the travelling and whether I’ll be okay as it’ll be a hectic few days away from home. Everyone who knows me knows what happened on my last visit to Manchester so as expected, I do feel anxious. Right now my excitement is what I’m mostly concentrating on and so I should be.
Anyway, I’m hoping it won’t be as long before I upload another new post again as I have missed blogging and sharing my thoughts/life with you. Thank you for reading and I’ll talk to you soon ’

My Bardot Outfit

dinkykatie@hotmail.com (Katie Wearing) — Tue, 10 Jul 2018 20:22:20 GMT

Want to know what I wore and what my thoughts were on my MOTD? Now you can read all about it here...

Hi everyone!!

If you follow my Instagram account (link is available on the site's main page) you may have already seen this photo and the following but here, you will see them much closer up.

The dress that I am wearing here in the photo is from River Island and it is so comfy to wear. I really love wearing Bardot style tops and dresses, it gives me a sense of fun and a little sexiness too. The length goes just below my knees so not too long and not too short. I'm not the most confident in wearing short clothes although it is something I have been working on. As you can just see, the sleeves go to a little above my elbows. It's ribbed jersey fabric and has a shirred waist.
This dress can be coordinated with the black floral embroidered cover up cardigan; also from River Island. I actually took this off soon as I arrived at the party venue as the place didn't have air conditioning. It ties at the front and has long fluted sleeves. The tassel hem along the bottom is really cute but adds a little fun. Like the dress, this is shirred woven fabric.

I wore my silver flat sandals which I purchased from Shoezone last year sometime, I think. They are comfortable and easy to put on/take off as they have Velcro straps. I used to always want to wear heeled footwear but since I got my new wheelchair, it is more of a strain on my knees as they don't get the same support like I do when I wear flats.

Now onto something a little more exciting; my makeup look. Admittingly; it took me quite a few hours from start to finishing my makeup applying and I was watching the England game at the same time. In the above photo, you can see how my eye looked. I enjoyed creating this look and I used both the Models Own 'Full Moon' Eyeshadow Palette and the 'Wild Rose' Makeup Collection Palette by Style Essentials. I decided on this look to coordinate with my embroidery on my cardigan but it accidently went in perfect timing for Pride Week and I'm more than happy to support this. I felt pleased with how easy I found softly blending these bright colours in such a small area! It is time consuming though, ha ha!
Also, I am wearing false lashes (Eylure - 'Volume No101'). This particular eye in the photo took me around three seconds to get the lashes on yet my other eye, it took me nearly three quarters of an hour to put on! As many of you know, I'm unable to use my left hand (other than the thumb) so it was rather tricky trying to hold the lash on the little applicator whilst putting the glue on but I got there in the end. Although my right eye wasn't perfect, I'm still proud of myself for not giving up and them looking decent. I'm wearing the Bad Gal Bang Mascara by Benefit Cosmetics as I love the volume and lengthening it gives to my lashes which aren't the best. What Revolution mascara do you recommend? Starting back at the skin, I'm wearing the Fast Base Foundation Stick by Revolution Makeup with a little bit of Glow On Natural Radiance Foundation to add a bit of colour. I also used the Define and Conceal Concealer, the Creme Highlight and Contour Kit, Ultra Blush Palette - Sugar and Spice, Soph Highlighter Palette and the 'Cake' lipstick by the Soph range... all by Revolution Makeup. On top of the Soph lipstick, I added a little of the Metallic Matte Nude Liquid Lipstick just to give it a little pinkish tone to my lips. As always, I used my True Colour Glimmerstick in Black by Avon. This glides on so easily and it doesn't drag along my skin as it's much softer than a pencil. Another great thing about these Glimmersticks is that you don't have to sharpen which again for me is a little tricky.

Even though this isn't the best photo, there's something about it that I quite like. However, back to the main focus in the photo which is the earrings. Despite how much they're pulling on my ears, they don't feel as heavy as they look. They match with my dress perfectly and I love how they sparkle. I bought them in George at Asda.
Summarising my full look; I felt really happy and confident in how I looked. I was a little sad at wiping all the makeup off, taking off the earrings and dressing into my pjs but I was ready for resting up in bed! I had such a lovely night and it went too fast. I'm not sure if the party was a surprise but there was a surprise in store because my cousin and her hubby appeared as they live away. It was so nice to see them as I don't see them much :-) What was nice about the night was that some of my family were chatting; asking how I'm doing as my health hasn't been so good since the beginning of December and it definitely shows how much they all care about me, which I'm truly thankful for because I care about them all too.
Anyway, this is enough for this post and I hope to be writing again soon for you all to see. Thank you for taking the time to read my blog and venturing over onto this website. Keep smiling <3 xxx

Madness of May

dinkykatie@hotmail.com (Katie Wearing) — Wed, 06 Jun 2018 00:10:46 GMT

Definitely A Mad Month For Me!

Like most years when May is looming, as excited as I am, it always leaves me a little overwhelmed. Why? You might be asking, well let me chat about the Madness of May!
On the 10th which was a Thursday, I had Hydrotherapy in the afternoon and then in the evening, I went to see Pasha and Anya at my local Arts and Theatre place: The Forum. In between going from the hospital and then the show, I had little time to fully get ready and make sure I have something to eat. Then I was due at the theatre for before 6:30pm as I was doing a VIP (meet and greet with Pasha and photo opportunity). Normally on a typical day where I need to dress and get glammed up, it can take me at least 2 hours! That's for me to slowly do my makeup, have something to eat and get dressed with rest breaks in between... it's very tiring for me but the end result is worth it for me. It's much better when I have more time and it is later on in the day where I've had some sleep because it is quite a struggle having to get ready for before midday (I don't sleep very well and often a bad pattern). You'll be able to imagine how much anxiety it causes me when I have a wedding or a christening early on in the day and it's not nice, worrying about how you are going to function on less than 3 to 4 hours a night when I struggle with fatigue as well. Okay, I'm going off track here so let's get back to what we were talking about... Anyway seeing Pasha again was lovely. He didn't call me a 'groupie' this time ha ha!!
Then the following Thursday, again I had Hydro. In fact on every Thursday in May, I have Hydro! Then on Friday, I went to Blackpool for the two nights that weekend. We got there about tea time as we had to stop at a tyre garage. We stayed at the Norbreck Castle Hotel... okay it's run down but it's NOT THAT BAD!! All we were doing was sleeping there. As long as everything works, it's clean and the beds are comfy,, that's what really matters. In my opinion, anyway. We had a great weekend to sum it up although it did leave me feeling exhausted from the travelling, being on the go all day for three (actually ended up being five days) and not resting like I usually do. You can see what I and my parents got up to during this weekend break on my YouTube channel.
I did have an appointment to meet my new Dental Hygenist but unfortunately had to cancel. I was too exhausted and fatigue had struck me. Pain wasn't great either. Anyway, this has been rescheduled.
On Wednesday the 23rd, it was my dad's birthday and it was a special one this year. We all went to The Dunes for a gorgeous meal. There was me, my mum, my sister and my little niece' Ciara. Then on the Thursday, Hydro then came home to get ready to go to my local Wetherspoons to meet some of my dad's family to help him celebrate his birthday. It was a fun night and he really enjoyed his special night!
I can't remember what I did between this Thursday and then my birthday on the 31st. Don't recall doing anything majorly exciting ha ha!
So on my birthday, we all went to the Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway which we all enjoyed the ride on the steam train. When we got to Lakeside, we grabbed some food from the café/shop there and ate in the sunshine. Me and Ciara shared my hotdog which was quite nice. Then once we were ready, me, my dad and my sister along with Ciara (my mum stayed outside) visited the Lakeside Aquarium. It was small but it was good. Like my Blackpool vlog, you can see my birthday vlog also up on my YouTube channel. From the Aquarium, we headed back to Haverthwaite on the train and made our way back to my sister's house where we were greeted by my brother-in-law' Leigh. There Ciara and my sister brought in some little cakes to me with three candles which i thought was cute. I chilled out once I got back home as I was quite tired. I had a wonderful day surrounded by my close family and being emtertained by my niece.
Thankfully, I had a much needed day of rest on the Friday. Then on the Saturday, we went to town and I managed to get my hair cut. I'm surprised that not many people have noticed as it was super long and had no layers in it! Once back home, it was time to get ready for my birthday night out. I met my amazing friends in the Wetherspoons for some food and then a few drinks. I loved seeing them and celebrating with them. I'd like to think that I've made a new friend from it too. Everyone of the ladies looked lovely and I was so happy that they could make it. I'm very lucky that I have finally found my true closest friends and that they're my friends.
On Sunday, me and my parents went to the Bosun's Locker for some food. The only complaint that I had was the bacon in my bacon sandwich was hard which baffles me because there really is nothing easier to cook than bacon! Everything else was delicious though.
Besides all the festivities, it is also EDS Awareness Month which definitely adds to the Madness of May for me. I always feel like I don't do enough for it but then I have to remind myself of all the other times I spend; writing up my EDS Facebook Page and ccreating videos for my channel.
Anyway, this blog post is soooo long but I had so much to say and catch you up on. I hope you like my new blog home? Hopefully it won't be as lengthy or as long waiting period in between as I think I have finally figured out how to do the blog on here. Take care and thank you for reading! <3

My First Blog Post

dinkykatie@hotmail.com (Katie Wearing) — Wed, 25 Apr 2018 00:44:51 GMT

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Hello everyone!!
This is the first post of my brand new website and I’m hoping you are enjoying my new site?!? On this site, you will find not my blog, but my DinkyKts EDS Diaries posts and there will be much more added as I get to grips with having my own website.
You may be wondering why I’ve decided to set up this site and the new home for my blog? Well it’s because I wanted to start a new and to have everything that I work so hard on in an accessible place together. Obviously by clicking on widgets etc, they will Take you to my social media and you can follow me on those but for me it will be easier and more organised to have everything in one place. Please bear with me as I continue to work on the finishes touches of this site but don’t be afraid to share your thoughts, advice and just to say hi with me!!
So who else is excited for this new and exciting adventure? I know I am for sure! See you in my next post xxx

Hello my lovely peeps!!

As sad as I am about leaving worldofdinky.blogspot.co.uk behind, I’m very excited to have this new website up and running. My life has suddenly got busier and I feel more inspired to write and post more so this makes lots of blogging to be done. I know that I don’t really fit into any particular niche within the blogging world as I write not only about beauty, fashion, reviews and my life as a person with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. So if you like who I am and what I’m about, then that’s what is important. You’ll see that I’m an all rounder when it comes to blogging and the same goes for my YouTube channel.
So that’s all I’m going to say in this post and I can’t wait to see what awaits us on this new journey, and to see what your thoughts are on this new site.
Tske care and make sure you subscribe so you don’t miss anything! There’s links to all of my social media platforms so there’s no excuse for not following me EVERYWHERE ��❤️ xxx