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Wales Online
Wales Online
Sport
Katie Sands

'Everyone thought I was a thug and I tried to take my own life — now I play rugby for Wales'

Freedom — the state of not being imprisoned or enslaved. Donna Rose does not hesitate in her word selection when asked to sum up what rugby has given her.

She was branded a thug during her childhood, parents didn't want their kids to play with her and she faced doubts at what seemed like every turn. The Wales rugby international would go on to try to take her own life.

Ten years ago, aged 20, Donna was diagnosed with borderline personality disorder, a disorder of mood and how a person interacts with others. Being open about her mental health is now paramount to the Saracens star, even if it helps just one person.

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