Firstly, I just wanted to say a big 'Thank You' to all those at Myvesta for all the information, support and advice this website has provided. Without this, I don't know what I would have done
.
For nearly three years, I struggled with a pile of debt to the tune of £30k, an unhappy relationship and depression. My relationship broke down (my ex did a runner
), I was being hounded by telephone calls and letters and I was feeling more and more depressed as the days went on. Suicide was on my mind constantly, and I even attempted it once.
Then, by some miracle, I found this website and realised that I was not alone, that other good, honest and gentle people out there were in the same position as me (some were a little more worse off, bless them). So, with the help of Myvesta's advice, I filed for bankruptcy on 25th May 2007. In and out of the courtroom in less than three minutes, I spent more time with the bankruptcy clerk who went over my forms.
The OR interview came on 13th June, and it was a painless experience. My car and some jewellery (bought for me by my ex) were taken at the beginning of July as I had stated them as assets on my Statement of Affairs. I didn't mind the jewellery going as they reminded me of my ex
and, although I thought I would miss the car, it turns out that I now walk a lot more and have lost some weight 
.
I signed an IPA in October 2007 and, at the end of November, I received a letter informing me that I was discharged on 12th November 2007 - less than six months of being bankrupt. Painless and easy. I can't believe how quickly the time has gone. I also can't quite believe how easy the process was for me.
I didn't own my own business, my house was repossessed, my debts were all joint and my ex had done a runner. I believe that my case was relatively easy. The OR's office was always polite, friendly and efficient. I had no problems phoning them when I needed to.
Now, life couldn't be more better. I received counselling for my depression and am currently being weened off my anti-depressants. I am in another relationship with someone completely different to my ex, someone who knows all about my past and still loves me for it. I no longer dread the post arriving, or the telephone ringing. I afforded Christmas with no money worries at all. Generally, life couldn't be treating me any better
.
However, I would advise that bankruptcy isn't something to be taken lightly and I would tell anyone to seriously think about it before taking the plunge. I read and re-read dozens of leaflets, as well as searching the Insolvency Service website, and talked with Myvesta, before I decided that bankruptcy was the best option for me. I have seen other people trying to get loans and credit cards as soon as they have been discharged (something I would never, ever do again) and it is as though these people haven't really thought about what they are doing.
Although the process was relatively painless and stress-free for me, I know that this isn't the case for everyone. I believe I was one of the lucky few and I have certainly learnt my lesson. If I want anything in the future, I shall always save for it.
On the positive side, I have found that I have more money now than I ever did before I was bankrupt
. I am more careful with my money, I always shop for bargains and I never go over my budget.
I hope this helps someone who is trying to figure out what to do about their money worries. At the end of the day, it is just money and your health and happiness come first. Just the other day, a friend (who I hadn't seen for a while) commented on how good and content I looked. That was such a beautiful thing to say and I shall cherish it.
Lastly, I would like to wish each and every one of you a happy, safe and peaceful Christmas and I hope that 2008 is the year your money worries come to an end.
Thank you Myvesta and best wishes,
Mel
