Introduction

‌In life, we often find ourselves faced with challenges and opportunities that test our resilience and determination. For me, the past decade has been a rollercoaster of experiences, both professionally and personally. However, I owe much of my growth and success as a businesswoman to one incredible person – my husband. Throughout the years, he has been my unwavering support system, standing by my side through thick and thin and playing a crucial role in shaping my current business.

‌The Leap of Faith – Moving to Taiwan

In 2013, we made a bold decision together to leave behind our comfortable lives and embark on an adventurous journey to Taiwan, where we moved for my husband’s work. It was undoubtedly a difficult choice, leaving behind family, friends, my job, and the sense of independence I had always cherished. One of my most significant fears was relying on my husband financially, as I had always been used to having my own income. But he reassured me that it was our money earned together and that we were a team in this new chapter of our lives. We would not be embarking on this adventure if it wasn’t a joint decision after all.

Facing Adversity – Battling Cancer

Just a year into our Asian adventure, and to our utter shock, I was diagnosed with cancer. Being diagnosed is a shock on its own but receiving that diagnosis in a different country was terrifying. This was a trying time that demanded a different kind of support, and my husband stepped up to the plate without hesitation. He provided unwavering support, always ready to do whatever it took to help me through my toughest moments. And at times, it did get tough. We didn’t have our families and closest friends near us for support during the early stages of this diagnosis. We made the choice to return to the UK for treatment, but my husband remained in Taiwan, visiting me in the UK as often as he could.

Starting Afresh – A New Job in Hong Kong

In 2016, we moved to Hong Kong, and with my extensive experience as a Personal Assistant/Executive Assistant, I was eager to find work immediately. My husband shared my excitement when I received a job offer after a couple of interviews. However, life threw another curveball when I was diagnosed with cancer again, and we faced a tough decision – return to the UK or find a suitable consultant in Hong Kong for treatment. My husband was by my side through this difficult decision, supporting my choice to stay in our new home. Receiving treatment in Hong Kong was the best decision i ever made because i felt in control of the situation this time. The treatment I received was incredible and having my husband close by meant the world.

Pursuing My Passion – A Science Degree

‌In 2018, we settled in East London for my husbands work, and I was at a crossroads regarding my career. Inspired by my passion for pathology, forensics, biology, and all things science, my husband encouraged me to pursue a BSc in Health Science at the Open University. His financial support allowed me to focus on my studies, and I eventually found evening work at a science lab, which I adored. It was only a part time position but the sense of independence i felt was immeasurable. I was doing something for me again.

Weathering the Storm – Battling Cancer Again and COVID

In 2021, another cancer diagnosis hit me hard, taking a significant toll on my mental health, and there were some very dark days before, during and after this diagnosis. This time it involved major surgery and a long bout of recovery, mental and physically. During this trying period, my husband’s unwavering support became even more critical as I leaned on him for strength. The challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic added to the difficulty, especially when visitors were limited to only 1 hour per day while i was in hospital for almost 2 weeks recovering. There is nothing that drains you more than trying to be strong for the ones you love, but my husband remained my rock throughout and allowed me to let go and break mentally. Allowing yourself to be vulnerable for your family and allowing them to support you in every way possible is so scary because I didn’t feel in control. But this was the best for me at the time and I owe everything to my husband for that.

A New Beginning – The Executives Suite

‌After my recovery and the end of radiotherapy, I realised I needed to reclaim my life and pursue my passion for helping others. I started my Virtual Assistant (VA) business, The Executives Suite at the end of 2021. When I shared my plans with my husband, he wholeheartedly supported me. He was over the moon that i was doing something for me again, following my passion for helping others. His assistance in helping set up the business was very much appreciated. His offering of advice on domains and marketing, and being my most loyal supporter, has played a significant role in the success of The Executives Suite.

The Power of Having a Supportive Partner

‌Running a business is a rollercoaster ride with its ups and downs. Having a supportive partner to share my burdens, discuss ideas, and celebrate successes with has been invaluable. My husband has been there to listen, offer a different perspective, and provide unwavering encouragement during moments when my motivation waned. He understands that running a business is not smiles and positivity every day, but relishes the days that are. He appreciates the hard work, long days and the determination it takes every day to succeed.

‌Conclusion

‌My journey as a businesswoman has been filled with both triumphs and hardships. Through it all, the support and love from my husband has been the foundation upon which I built my success. From taking that leap of faith moving to the other side of the world, to supporting me through cancer battles and encouraging me to pursue my passions, he has been my constant cheerleader. The Executives Suite wouldn’t be what it is today without his unwavering belief in me and for that I will be forever grateful. Having someone there to see the best in yourself when you struggle, is simply the best.

‌To all aspiring entrepreneurs, remember the importance of having a strong support system; it can make all the difference in realising your dreams.

If you would like to read more about my story, cancer diagnosis and the why behind my business, please click here.