A beauty queen has revealed how the hell of planning her own funeral has helped her cope with the horrific psychological toll of the pandemic.
Stephanie Gillan has become a campaigner after overcoming her mental health battles including facing her own mortality when she was diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer.
Just days after her diagnosis, her husband Robert was hit by a six-ton truck at work, suffering severe injuries.
Now, she has been given the all-clear and has won a beauty pageant.
Mum-of-four Stephanie, 29, director of charity Unmasked Mental Health Scotland, said: “During the pandemic, we have seen an increase in the need for services, help, support and guidance.
“Mental health is something close to my heart as I suffer from severe panic attacks and have since a young age.
“This was heightened after my husband had a severe accident and I was diagnosed with a rare form of chest tumour in 2017 days apart.
"During this time, my husband suffered from severe depression and now suffers from long-term anxiety and post traumatic stress disorder.
“I also lost my uncle to suicide along with a few close friends in recent times.”
She added: “I will continue to fight for positivity and more awareness that no one is alone in their struggles.
"I’ve also approached the Scottish Government regarding the struggles individuals in Scotland are facing when it comes to finding help and guidance with mental health services.
“We are hoping we can push for our services to be made aware of so we can help to ease the stress and anxiety others face when discussing their mental health.”
After a barrage of tests, Stephanie was given the all clear.
She said: “I was told the tumour was benign but I’d still need radiotherapy and possibly surgery.”
Last January, she won Ms Saltire 2020. She said: “I’ve made the most amazing friends and have raised so much money.”
