A new lease of life: Eileen’s story
When Eileen lost her husband, she lost more than her life partner - she also lost her routine, her confidence and sense of self.
Her daughter Angela shares how Leeds Irish Health and Homes helped her mum rediscover her spark.
“My parents were married for over 50 years,” says Angela. “They had their routines - one night at the Irish Centre, another night somewhere else. When Dad passed away in 2022, it hit Mum really hard.”
Eileen, once outgoing and independent, completely withdrew. “She just didn’t feel comfortable going out or seeing people,” Angela recalls. “That was worrying - she wasn’t talking about how she was feeling. I think she felt she had to stay strong for me and my sisters.”
And along with the emotional toll, Eileen started to experience minor health issues, which knocked her confidence even more.
Angela knew of Leeds Irish Health and Homes, but didn’t realise the full range of support available. “Mum and Dad used to get a Christmas card from them, and I think they received a Craic Pack during Covid,” she says. “They had us close by, so I guess they felt they didn’t need anything else.”
But after her husband died, a support worker from Leeds Irish Health and Homes reached out to Eileen.
“I still don’t know how they found out about Mum - but I’m so grateful they did,” Angela says. “They’ve managed to get her out of the house again. She goes to the Lunch Club regularly, and has been on all sorts of day trips and events. She’s met so many new people - she’s got a new lease of life. It’s lovely to see her with a spring in her step again.”
Angela says it’s Leeds Irish Health and Homes’ thoughtful, hands-on approach that makes all the difference. “They don’t just invite her along - they make proper arrangements. They’ll say, ‘We’ll pick you up here at this time,’ and they follow through. It’s the little things: linking arms with her on the way in somewhere, walking her back to her door. It gives her confidence.”
“She’s met so many new people - she’s got a new lease of life. It’s lovely to see her with a spring in her step again.”
With the encouragement and support of Leeds Irish Health and Homes, Eileen has pushed herself outside her comfort zone. “She’s tried craft sessions and made all sorts. She’s been to restaurants in Leeds I’ve never even heard of. She’s gone from not wanting to leave the house to me asking if she’s got time to see me!”
Angela is deeply grateful for the support her mum has received.
“You don’t realise how bereavement can change someone overnight. And like a lot of Irish people, my parents were proud - they’d never ask for help. They’d always think someone else
needed it more. But Leeds Irish Health and Homes stepped in just when we needed them. I can’t thank them enough.”
“They’re changing lives - sometimes without even realising it.”
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