Catie Nettlingham is a young woman who grew up and currently lives in Havelock North. She has a direct family of six who all love spending time at the local beach. At eighteen she left home to study at university in the South Island. There, a long way home, she became unwell and developed a mental illness. She left behind that new beginning and returned home and into the arms of loved ones. The following years were all about recovery. She loves being creative, keeping close relationships with friends and family, helping others and being out in nature. Catie is currently enjoying a job supporting people with intellectual disabilities and plans to return to academic study in the future. She is passionate about writing, helping others and advocating for mental health. She believes everyone deserves to get through their hard times.