A MOBILE DJ has recovered from a nightmare year to forge a career.
During the past 12 months Simon Whitehead, of Cherry Crescent in Winsford, has endured problems which led to a nervous breakdown.
But he has recovered and is following his dream of being a DJ.
Simon, 26, has set up Spotlights Disco with his friend Ricky Crellin, and half of the money earned during their Christmas and New Year discos will go to the Baby Care Unit at Leighton Hospital.
'It is a charity very close to my heart as I have children who sadly don't live with me,' he said.
Simon's problems began in January, when his marriage ended, and he said: 'Not only did I have to leave my wife but also my daughter, Abigail, who I haven't seen since January and have no access to due to personal circumstances beyond my control.
'In February my gran, who has been a rock through all my childhood and very supportive of everything I have done, was told she had Parkinson's and has been very ill.'
He said he was demoted at the care company he worked for, and also lost his uncle at the age of 53.
In August Simon began working at Martin's Convenience Store in Delamere Street, Winsford, and was promoted to deputy manager. But in September a new relationship ended and he spiralled into depression.
'That destroyed me after a year of terrible events and one marriage breakdown,' he said. 'I suffered a temporary nervous breakdown and was forced to forfeit my position as deputy manager. I couldn't drive my car for a month, wouldn't eat or drink, constant sleeping, I was at the lowest point ever in my life, dependant on tablets.
'Then one day something clicked after a conversation with my brother Stephen, who said 'I love you but you're no use to me dead'.
'I've surprised myself and my family, also my friends, with my recovery.'
