Finding Colour Through the Hardest Days - Liisa Bell

Liisa’s story of creativity, resilience and community. 

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and today we’re sharing a story that’s particularly close to our hearts.

Five months into studying her Certificate IV in Interior Decoration, our beautiful graduate Liisa Bell received a breast cancer diagnosis.

What followed was an incredibly challenging journey, but one in which creativity, connection and community became an important source of joy.

We’re so grateful to Liisa for sharing her experience with us, and hope her words serve as a reminder of just how important it is to make space for the things that light us up.

 Liisa’s letter 

"As an Alumni, Design School taught me that you have to fight for what brings you joy, what lights you up.

It’s pursuing a passion project, when you can’t see the end harvest clearly, or what fruit it will produce you just know that it’s worth sowing the seed. Actually, at times it’s even more important to fight for it.

I ended up enrolling because interiors lights me up, always curious of colour combination, various styles, aesthetics, it’s just something I have always enjoyed, and studying with Design School gave me a path to something that I could sow into my future.

I was hungry to learn and wanted it to be taught well.

Its easier to stay the course with obligations, but passion projects and the chance or opportunity to do something for you, something you like and enjoy, takes a deeper level of grit to stay the course and not let go. When things get bumpy or challenging or even when we are sitting in the sweet spot of life, the challenge to embrace change and growth can be an internal, uncomfortable sandpaper.

To stay the course you need the magic recipe of synergy. A good and detailed roadmap, a quality high five-ing support group, and a destination worth the journey, I believe I hit the sweet spot with Design School.

Our incredible student cohort, our beautiful and equally industry knowledgeable teacher, Holly Miskimmin. The same inspiring skillset, detailed thinking, care and problem solving, that you give to industry clients, was shared with your students. The most amazing part to me is that this was all done online.

5 months into my study I was diagnosed with breast cancer.

I decided to continue studies as it gave me a place of joy and colour during my treatment. To say that Holly, Mel and Design School team gave me support, care and matched commitment to see me through to graduation is an understatement.

This experience taught me that healing happens in community. I’m here now cancer free & cert IV completed.

My class, the DS team and beautiful Holly all shared and encouraged me to set the compass and keep going, step by step by step.

It astounds me what we can achieve in 12 months. Go for it, set your compass, keep your eyes on the horizon and take one step at. A. Time. Don’t underestimate the days of small beginnings. If I’ve learnt anything, The journey and destination are breathtaking and so so worth it. I don’t just have a qualification now, I have a support network.

It takes a village - your village is right here."

Liisa Bell x

^{Design School Graduating Group, 28. 2024}

A little reminder from us...

We’re incredibly proud of Liisa. Not just for completing her studies, but for the courage, determination and generosity she’s shown in sharing her story.

As Breast Cancer Awareness Month comes to a close, we’d also like to leave you with a gentle reminder to be breast aware.

Get to know your breasts and what’s normal for you. If you notice any changes, don’t put off speaking with your GP. And make sure you’re up to date with any breast screening recommended for you.

Life gets busy, and it’s easy to put ourselves last. But looking after yourself matters, too.

Thank you, Liisa, for reminding us of the importance of community, creativity and making space for the things that bring us joy.

With love,

Holly & Mel x

CHECK YOUR BREASTS. KNOW YOUR NORMAL.

Breast awareness matters all year round.

For information about breast screening, visit https://www.breastscreen.org.au