Cliff's Story
Cliff Narain was married to his beloved wife, Haleema for 50 years. They shared a life full of love, companionship, and quiet devotion. In October 2022, Haleema was admitted to Invicta Court Care Home. During that difficult time, Cliff visited her every day, sitting with her and spending precious moments together. Sadly, after just a few weeks, Haleema passed away.
Cliff and Haleema had come to the UK from Mauritius in the early 70s and worked within the NHS for over 30 years. A busy and rewarding life, but now Cliff suddenly felt completely lost. The house was quiet, the days were long, and the loss of his wife was overwhelming. Despite the close and loving relationship with his two sons and their wives, and now two grandchildren, the loneliness was still very real. Often, Cliff found himself wandering down to Invicta Court. It felt warm and familiar, and the staff knew him. It gave him comfort at a time when he didn’t quite know where he belonged.
One day, Jaime from Invicta Court suggested that Cliff might like to join the Friendship Café. She explained when the group met and then messaged Wendy and Di to let them know that Cliff might pop along. He did, and although initially a little quiet and shy, he soon became a regular visitor to the Friendship Café.
That was the beginning of 2023.
Fast forward to today, and Cliff is now a much-loved and regular member of Circle of Friends. He is a confident, happy, vibrant gentleman with a wide range of interests. He enjoys all the activities, including bowling trips, coffee mornings, walks, crazy golf, and lunches. He even joined a weekend away to Liverpool, where he celebrated his 80th birthday surrounded by his friends.
Something special to take away from Cliff’s story is his willingness to give anything a go. With that naughty twinkle in his eye and great sense of humour, he is adored by us all.
Recently, after a chance conversation with another member, Val, they discovered that Cliff would like to learn to knit. Val was very happy to teach him, and now once a week the two can be found together at Cliff’s house. One very patient teacher and one very enthusiastic pupil, although the scarf does seem to be never-ending.
It’s a friendship that perfectly captures the spirit of Circle of Friends.
Circle of Friends has given Cliff something priceless: friendship, purpose, and something to look forward to each day. His son’s Neils and Kieran and their families regularly see the difference Circle of Friends has made to Cliff, and they couldn’t be happier that their dad has found a place where he has found real friendship and a sense of belonging.