For 20 years, I had the privilege of working within the National Health Service across HR, communications, and change management. These roles weren't just positions—they were opportunities to make a genuine difference in how people experienced their working lives.

For over three decades, I believed I was living the life I'd always wanted. I was married to my partner, we'd raised three wonderful sons together, and I'd built a fulfilling career. Our marriage wasn't perfect—no marriage is—but we had created something beautiful: a loving family, strong friendships, and a home filled with memories. But beneath the surface, cracks were forming that I couldn't yet see.

Starting over in love after a long marriage can feel like standing at the edge of an unfamiliar cliff. When I first began dating again, I hadn't been on a date in 38 years—and honestly, I'm not even sure "dating" was really a thing when I was a teenager! If you're facing this same crossroads, know that you're not alone, and with the right approach, this new chapter can be both empowering and rewarding.

Discovering betrayal in your marriage is one of life's most devastating experiences. The ground beneath your feet shifts, and suddenly everything you thought you knew feels uncertain. If you're reading this in the aftermath of such a discovery, know that what you're feeling is valid, and healing is possible.