With the help of the Association a Blesma Widow is beginning to regain her confidence following the passing of her husband.

Rita Taylor was devastated by the loss of husband David in September last year, but thanks to the support of her Outreach Officer Jas Suller and Welfare Rep Chris Jones, she is finding a new support network in Blesma.

In January, Rita attended the Gloucester Christmas Lunch – the first Blesma activity she has taken part in on her own.

“If it hadn’t been for Jas, I might not have got dressed that morning. I might have just sat at home knitting and listening to the radio. At first, you can’t go out alone after losing a loved one. You lose all your confidence. You need someone to prop you up and Blesma has been that prop to take me out into the world,” said Rita who was married to David for 57 years.

David served in the Royal Navy for 11 years before becoming a Blesma Member in 2012. Rita recalls Members Chris Jones and Harry Johnson visiting him after his left leg was amputated, which gave them both hope of life after limb loss. Following David’s passing, Blesma has continued to provide Rita with emotional and welfare support.

“Chris contacted me to see if I needed anything. Now I feel included and part of something special,” said Rita. “Being the wife of a Blesma Member, I have attended a number of lunches and events before, so I knew I wasn’t walking into a room full of strangers at the Christmas lunch. We are all in a similar situation. There is a bond. It’s reassuring.” Rita has now applied for Widows Week. 

“If I go away with people who have experienced what I have we’ll have things in common. Blesma is giving me a community again"