THE REASON I STARTED WRITING

Who am I? 
I answer to many names: Stephné, Steph, Stephanie, Hope, Mrs. Hope, Mum, Auntie Steph, and the list goes on. My maiden name is Swanepoel. When I first landed in the UK from South Africa many moons ago, I started working as a supply teacher. So apparently, the pronunciation of Swanepoel can be anything from 'Swimmingpool' or 'Swamp-poo'…  It was indeed a lot easier for all concerned when I became Mrs. Hope! 
Hope is such a beautiful name. Over the years, it has not just been my surname, or name, but also part of my life. 
My husband and I have tried to have children for many years, but at first, we were not so lucky. I experienced the heartbreak of a miscarriage, later followed by an ectopic pregnancy, which brought me very close to that light you see at the end of your life... At that time, there was no light for me, only rock bottom. 
How did I get through this? With the love and support from my husband, family, friends, work colleagues, and my faith. 
Two years later, our little miracle arrived in the form of a beautiful daughter. She inspired me to write - write about life stories and dreams that will instill self-esteem, confidence and resilience.