An artisan chocolate maker, set to open her first café in Staffordshire in the next few days, has been talking about her brave battle with mental health issues.
Michaela Jones, of Mishka Truffles hopes her story of overcoming adversity and battling with ADHD and bipolar disorder will serve as a beacon of hope to fellow strugglers.
Last month, Daily Focus reported that the popular market trader is set to open her first chocolatier café in Stone.
Work has been ongoing to transform the former Stone Baked Café, on High Street, with an official launch date now set for April 6.
Now, Michaela, of Wychwood, near Crewe, has revealed her remarkable journey in a bid to inspire others to follow their dreams.
Michaela said: “I am now an open book on mental health problems and see that as important.
“But for years I suffered debilitating mood swings and depression – but had no idea why.
“Diagnosis freed me to be able to face my troubles and, just as importantly, allowed me to share them with my husband and children.
“I can still have bad days, but diagnosis means I have understanding, and my passion for chocolate making is a release.
“I am determined to make a huge success of Mishka and have plans to expand beyond one store and I want to use my story to support others.
“I want people to be able to come and join me, share their favourite flavoured truffles or luxurious Belgian hot chocolate, and just talk.”
Michaela has always used baking as a therapy to support her health issues.
Inspired by the rum truffles she remembers her grandma making, Michaela has spent many hours perfecting fresh chocolate truffle recipes in a range of flavours, using the finest chocolate and ingredients such as walnuts grown in her father’s garden in the Czech Republic.
She explained: “Chocolate making has been my therapy and I want to use my love of creating truffles as a way of breaking the ice with others who need support.
“I have had very dark days and even understanding my issues came with problems as I felt shame and didn’t want to be a burden for my daughter and my husband.
“If I can use my love of chocolate – something that most people can relate to – as a way of helping one person, then I am a winner.”
Michaela has established Mishka Truffles as a firm favourite through her online store and at markets across North West England.
She sees her new shop in Stone as an initial step in a journey towards establishing her business as a favourite across several English towns.
“I’ve chosen Stone because it’s a town with a big heart. The local community is incredibly supportive and it’s a place with incredible artisan businesses,” she added.
