Milton Keynes women help write 'pay it forward' book to inspire up to a billion people

Kathryn Charlton and Della Judd, together with 16 other women, have launched a book sharing their heart-warming and very personal stories in the hope that they will inspire other women around the world.

They are encouraging people to read the book and then follow the ‘pay it forward’ principle of passing it to another person or leave it in a public place for someone else to pick up and read.

Readers can even write their own messages of hope and inspiration in the message box at the front of the book before passing it on.

The book, called 'The Pay it Forward Series: Notes to My Younger Self – Vol 3” has been produced as part of a growing global movement called the Women of Contribution.

It details pivotal moments from the eighteen women as they write back to their younger selves, sharing an experience that changed their lives and passing on hope, wisdom, knowledge and inspiration.

And, with one in four people affected by mental illness in any given year, it is a reminder that even darkest moments can be seen as a guiding light, say Kathryn and Delia.

"We are so excited to be a part of this amazing book and what it represents. We hope by sharing our stories, others will be inspired to step forward too, so together we can be the leaders

of change and support each other with compassion and collaboration,” they said.

An extract from Delia's part in the book reads: "I experienced a lot of ill-health, and I would have taken notice much earlier. My migraines were symptoms of lots of stress held in my body, a reflection of the stress in my life.

"They basically had to keep on knocking me over until they were so bad I had to take notice. I’d listen earlier and take more action to look after myself."

The book is available in Kindle now, and a paperback version will be launched on March 13.