Karen

"My name is Karen. I was born in Jamaica. Growing up there was a lot of development going on, but nature was on my doorstep. I sit on the doorstep looking out over the sugarcane fields. My Dad would go out into the middle of the field to get the very best, juiciest sugarcane for me. I had mango trees and coconuts, fresh fruit easily within reach.
Here in the UK, I can look out of my door and see the lake that feeds the Thames estuary. I watch the swans and the ducks, just doing they own little wildlife ting. It makes me feel motivated. It’s cold, so having nature right there really helps. I don’t need to walk too far.  
Leaving the house is a challenge with my disability, but when I came to the choir I felt very welcomed. The choir is like a warm family. People help me find my chair so that I am comfortable.
When we went to perform at Glastonbury we had to camp. My choir friends helped me to feel comfortable, going the extra mile and making sure I had a suitable bed to sleep on! I felt loved and appreciated.
Singing on Azizam was a dream come true! My family was so surprised and delighted. This gave me so much joy. Being part of the choir helps me to push through my pain and come outside of the house. The more I come out and meet people, the more I feel loved and the better my wellbeing is."

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