‘My father said all gay people should be burned at the stake – I believed I was evil’
Debbie Lane, a 60-year-old resident of Swansea, has been through a tumultuous journey of self-discovery and resilience in the face of adversity. Her story is one of overcoming homophobia, domestic abuse, and mental health struggles to emerge as a beacon of hope and support for the LGBTQ+ community in Wales.
Debbie’s early years were marked by the oppressive and hateful remarks of her late father, who instilled in her the belief that being gay was synonymous with being “evil.” These toxic messages led her to conceal her true identity until the age of 31, when she made the courageous decision to break free from her past and embrace her authentic self.
Growing up, Debbie battled with thoughts of suicide, feeling unworthy and burdened by the weight of her father’s prejudices. It wasn’t until she sought counselling at the age of 28 that she began to find a glimmer of hope amidst the darkness. The therapy she received enabled her to come to terms with her sexuality and start on a new path towards self-acceptance and healing.
Now, as a happily married woman and a mother, Debbie dedicates her life to helping others in the LGBTQ+ community who may be struggling with similar challenges. In 2004, she founded the LGBT+ Cymru Helpline in Swansea, providing vital support and counselling services to individuals seeking guidance and acceptance.
Despite the invaluable work being done by Debbie and her charity, Progress Cymru, the organisation faces an uncertain future due to financial constraints. With no external funding sources, the charity is struggling to cover the cost of therapy sessions, rent, and staff salaries, amounting to around £150,000 per year.
Debbie is actively seeking corporate sponsors and donations to keep Progress Cymru operational and continue its life-saving work within the LGBTQ+ community. She emphasises the critical role the charity plays in preventing suicides and offering support to those in crisis, highlighting the urgent need for sustainable funding to sustain their services.
The challenges faced by Progress Cymru underscore the ongoing struggles of LGBTQ+ individuals in Wales, who often grapple with discrimination, mental health issues, and social stigma. Debbie’s resilience and determination to make a difference serve as a testament to the power of compassion and community support in overcoming adversity.
As Debbie fights to secure the future of Progress Cymru and ensure its continued impact on countless lives, she calls for solidarity and generosity from supporters and allies. The charity’s fundraising efforts aim to raise £25,000 by the end of the year, paving the way for sustained operations and expanded services for those in need.
Debbie’s story is a poignant reminder of the resilience and strength inherent in the human spirit, even in the face of profound hardship. Her journey from a place of despair to one of empowerment and advocacy is a testament to the transformative power of self-acceptance and community solidarity in fostering hope and healing.