Pat and Michelle

Pat and Michelle: Finding strength in community at The Woodlands

When Pat and Michael moved to The Woodlands in August 2022, they were looking forward to a new chapter after more than 40 years in their Bramhall home. One that would give them more time to relax, enjoy each other’s company, and make new friends.

Just a few months later, they spoke about how quickly they’d settled in. “We knew we’d enjoy it,” Michael said at the time, “but we didn’t think it was going to be as good as this. It’s everything that I expected and more.”

Those early days became especially precious in the years that followed. When Michael passed away in May 2025, the friendships and sense of belonging they had built together became an immense source of comfort and support for Pat, a reflection of the warmth that first drew them to their new home.

A life well-lived

When Pat and Michael first arrived at The Woodlands, they were struck by how quickly it felt like home. From those first weeks, they found themselves surrounded by kindness and friendship.

They joined quiz nights and coffee mornings, enjoyed fish and chip suppers, and celebrated Christmas with family in the restaurant.

For their daughter Michelle, watching her parents embrace this new stage of life brought huge joy: “I remember at the time, I said it’s like being on a cruise ship. They made so many friends so quickly. It gave them a whole new lease of life.”

Pat remembers how much that early enthusiasm meant to Michael. “He was bowled over when we first came to visit,” she said. “He just loved the idea that we could be part of a community but still have our own space. It felt right.”

“He always liked to know I was happy,” Pat said. “If I went out to an art class or for lunch with friends, he’d say, ‘Go on, Pat – off you go, enjoy yourself.’ He loved that I had that freedom here, and that we could both make the most of life.”

By early 2025, Michael’s health had begun to decline. Though he lived with COPD and heart problems, he remained cheerful. “He never made a fuss,” Pat said. “He just got on with things and always told me not to worry.”

When Michael died suddenly in May, the compassion of those around her meant a lot to Pat. The team at The Woodlands responded with gentleness and care, while neighbours rallied around her with warmth and kindness.

“There was so much support. Friends stayed with me, brought me tea, and made sure I wasn’t on my own if I didn’t want to be. It meant the world.”

A community that carries you

In the weeks that followed, the strength of the community was a great source of comfort for Pat. “It’s the little things,” she said. “Someone popping in with flowers, a card, a hug. Or just saying, ‘Come and sit with us for lunch.’ People look out for each other here.”

Michelle agrees. “It’s such a comfort to know Mum’s never on her own,” she said. “You know there’s always someone around – a neighbour, a friend or one of the team. That daily contact makes such a difference.”

For Pat, that support is also balanced with independence. “If I want quiet time, I can stay in my apartment, but if I feel like company, I only have to walk to the restaurant here or the lounge. There’s always a friendly face. Sometimes I’ll sit down with a coffee, and someone will just say, ‘Mind if I join you?’” she said. “It’s that easy. And if you want to be on your own, that’s fine too. There’s no pressure.”

Rediscovering joy

In recent weeks, Pat has found herself gently drawn back into community life, taking part in familiar activities and trying new ones for the first time.

“There’s always something happening here,” she said. “Art classes, musical afternoons, outings, dinners. You could be busy every day if you wanted to be.”

Recently she joined the drama group, something she’d never imagined herself doing. “They were putting on a play called The Woodlands Cruise, and someone dropped out,” she said. “They asked if I’d fill in.”

Her role, as René’s wife from ’Allo ’Allo!, even included a solo performance. “They told me I had to get up and sing,” she said. “So I did! I sang ‘No Regrets’. Everyone was so encouraging.”

The experience gave Pat a new sense of confidence. “People were clapping and laughing,” she said. “It made me realise I could still do new things. That felt really good.”

Cherishing memories

Although Pat has adjusted to living alone, reminders of Michael are all around her. His favourite chair still sits in pride of place. “It’s the best seat in the house,” she said.

She’s kept some of the flowers from his funeral, pressed and framed so their colours complement the room. “They were white daisies and sunflowers,” she said. “They remind me of his love of gardening.”

For Michelle, happy memories bring comfort too. “They had such a good three years here,” she said. “Christmas in the restaurant, Dad’s birthday, family meals. The staff always made it special. Dad loved that.”

The reassurance of home

For Pat’s family, knowing she’s surrounded by friends and support brings peace of mind. “You worry less,” Michelle said. “It’s different from being in a house on your own at night. There’s a security here. There’s always someone around, and that’s such a relief. If someone hasn’t been seen, someone will pop by to check they’re OK. They look out for each other.”

Pat nodded. “It’s reassuring, isn’t it?” she said. “You know that if you’re not at lunch one day, someone will notice. It’s nice to feel cared for without it ever feeling intrusive.”

A lasting sense of belonging

These days, Pat’s calendar is as full as ever. She enjoys lunch with friends, attends the art group, and joins in with the evening gatherings and quiz nights that bring everyone together. “There’s always something happening,” she said. “Sometimes it’s cocktails and canapés, sometimes we play darts in the activities room, sometimes we just chat in the lounge. It’s lovely to have that choice.”

She’s also learned to appreciate the quieter moments. “I’ve always been busy. Now I’ve got time for me. I can relax, watch a bit of television, or read a book, and still know that life is going on all around me.”

For Michelle, seeing her mum happy and secure means everything. “Dad would be so proud, he wanted her to be safe and content, and that’s exactly what she is. It’s a comfort to know she’s surrounded by people who care.”

Pat agrees. “It was the right decision,” she said. “I miss Mike every day, but I’m grateful for the life we had and I’m grateful for the kindness from everybody since. It’s a lovely place to be.”

As Pat reflects on the past three years, one thing feels certain: she and Michael made the right choice when they decided to move.

“I think Mike knew what he was doing when he said, ‘Let’s move,’” she said. “He wanted to make sure I’d be all right. And I am.”

 

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