Cambridgeshire woman launches her own business despite health issues

Barbara in her shop

WHEN Barbara Curtis was diagnosed with CFS (Chronic Fatigue Syndrome) and MCS (Multiple Chemical Sensitivity), she knew her health might make securing a job difficult in the future.

But now Barbara, 55 of Soham, is not only working after becoming self employed but she is celebrating after setting up her own online wool and crafts business which is expanding after she recently secured new premises in the Cloisters, Ely, just off the Market Square.

As well as quality yarns from King Cole, Curtis Crafts stocks budget knitting yarns, craft kits, cross stitch/long stitch kits and knitting accessories all ideal for the upcoming Winter months and great presents. There is also a loyalty scheme offering better value for money.

Of her conditions Barbara comments: "I believe it was the mercury contained in tooth fillings from earlier in life that caused my illness. However, I was determined that I could still set up my own business and online shop. I'm thrilled with the number of customers and Curtis Crafts has been going from strength to strength."

Barbara wears her mask

"Of course having CFS and MCS does make things difficult at times but I'm really happy with how things are going at the moment. The kiosk in the Cloisters is ideal for me and allows me to expand and continue to offer great value for money. I plan to be open on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays."

Having MCS means Barbara is intolerant to certain chemicals in the atmosphere. Wearing a mask helps prevent exposure to chemicals, which can make the condition worse: "With the mask, I hope visitors to the shop realise that I don't have swine flu or anything else but need to wear it because of my sensitivity to certain TOXIC chemicals."

Chemical smells, aftershaves, perfumes can all trigger a reaction which can leave Barbara feeling light headed, dizzy and totally debilitated for up to 3 weeks at a time.

In order to set up in business, Barbara turned to business support experts NWES for help, working with Business Advisor Paul Gardner. "Barbara has proved that her determination and vision can overcome her illness which not only has given her immense confidence but which will also I'm sure inspire others. She has taken advantage of the free help and advice we offer and made the big decisions that have allowed the business to grow", comments Paul.

Ely kiosk

For more information about Curtis Crafts, call Barbara Curtis on 01353 723826/07719208671 or visit www.curtiscrafts.co.uk.

For information on free advice and training to help start a business call NWES on 0845 6099991. NWES offers free advice and training to anyone in Cambridgeshire looking to start a business under the CREAM project, funded by Investing in Communities, a programme funded by EEDA and Cambridgeshire County Council and delivered by the Greater Cambridgeshire Partnership.

Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) causes long-term tiredness (fatigue) that affects everyday life, along with many other debilitating symptoms. It is not substantially relieved by rest.