Thank you PANDA, I made it to 30.

Dear friends

It's the end of an era. To say my 20s were colorful years would be an understatement. Moving out from my sheltered life in Lara to the big smoke at 18 I lived it up in grungy Fitzroy for 6 months in a studio flat then moved on to Toorak to live it up like a princess for another 6 months and partied hard south of the Yarra. Back over to Ascot Vale and Kensington for the next four odd years where I again enjoyed the shenanigans of a uni share house and celebrated my 21st Playboy style. Over the following nine years an 8 month backpacking adventure, career and finishing uni I made Pat's day by agreeing to marry him. What a lucky guy.

Now I'm a settled down suburban mum to a beautiful daughter who has been such a joy in our lives.

We'd like our closest and dearest to celebrate my thirtieth by taking the opportunity to raise funds for Post and Antenatal Depression Association (PANDA). No gifts please, just donations for a great cause.

When Leila was 5 months I was diagnosed with severe PND. It caught us by surprise as I was doing great and loved being a mum. Our world turned upside down and my dear husband essentially became a full time carer for myself and our daughter. The illness was debilitating and the most terrifying experience I've had. But we spoke up and got help. Without my hubby's support as well as our family and friends quite frankly I would not be here today. PANDA was instrumental in my recovery as they would call us every day during our darkest times and also put us in touch with the appropriate professional help. PANDA is run by volunteers and I'd like to give back to an organisation which helps thousands of mums and families every year.