Olivia Lucas, a young woman from Lisvane, Cardiff, has turned a tragic event from her past into a motivational journey of helping others. At the age of eight, Olivia lost her mother, police officer Louise Lucas, in a devastating accident where she was hit by a bus while they were out shopping. The incident left Olivia with minor injuries but took away her beloved mother. Louise, a respected and dedicated police sergeant, was mourned by hundreds at her funeral, with colleagues and community members paying their respects to a remarkable officer.
Despite the profound loss she experienced at a tender age, Olivia has shown resilience and determination in her pursuit to make a positive impact on the lives of others. Now 18 years old, she is studying sports and media at Swansea University and is actively involved in initiatives to support young people facing similar challenges of coping with grief and loss. Following in her mother’s footsteps of serving the community, Olivia has entered the Miss Wales competition with a noble goal of using her platform to raise awareness and offer support to those who have suffered the loss of a parent.
Olivia’s journey has not been without its struggles, as she grappled with dyslexia, symptoms of post-traumatic stress syndrome, and OCD following her mother’s tragic passing. The support of her father, brothers, friends, and the community has been instrumental in helping her navigate through the difficult times. Olivia acknowledges the impact of counselling and the passage of time in her healing process, emphasising the importance of reaching out for help and finding ways to cope with grief.
With a strong sense of purpose and a desire to inspire others, Olivia is determined to be a beacon of hope for young individuals facing adversity. By sharing her story and engaging in activities that uplift and empower those in similar situations, she aims to demonstrate that resilience and strength can emerge even in the face of profound loss. Olivia’s participation in the Miss Wales competition underscores her commitment to promoting mental health awareness and offering support to those navigating the complexities of grief and trauma.
Looking beyond her own struggles, Olivia extends a helping hand to others in need, exemplifying compassion and empathy in her actions. Through speaking engagements, charity involvement, and community outreach, she strives to create a positive impact on those around her and inspire a sense of resilience and optimism in individuals facing challenges. Olivia’s journey of healing and growth serves as a testament to the human spirit’s capacity to overcome adversity and find purpose in turning personal tragedy into opportunities for helping others.
As Olivia continues to pursue her academic and personal aspirations, her dedication to supporting young people who have experienced loss remains unwavering. Drawing strength from her family, her community, and her own resilience, she embodies the spirit of compassion and determination in making a difference in the lives of others. Olivia’s story is one of hope, courage, and the transformative power of turning pain into purpose, resonating with anyone who has faced adversity and found the strength to emerge stronger on the other side.