We are a group of friends posting on behalf of Lionel...

On the 7th of November 2024 our dear friend Lionel suffered a stroke which has damaged his cerebullum leaving him with ataxia to the left side of his body. He cannot walk, and has severely limited ability to care for himself.

Now Lionel needs our help.

Over the past year, life has thrown more at him than most could endure: losing his beloved wife Eve of 48 years, then undergoing a knee operation, breaking his hip, and suffering a stroke which has left him with very limited mobility. He now relies on carers four times a day, regular physio, and help with meals and cleaning. There are many other hidden costs which are creating barriers to him getting well and living life to the full.

What Lionel urgently needs is:

A 24 hour live in carer. This starts at around £950 per week.

An electric wheelchair that actually fits his needs, so he can get outside, see friends, and stay connected with the community that means so much to him. Cost approx £3,500 -£7,500

Physiotherapy to give him the best chance of reclaiming some mobility. £85 per session minimum.

The NHS have now discharged him from their care. Without support, he risks losing the independence and social connection that keep his spirit alive.

Lionel has given so freely of himself for decades, and now it’s time we give something back. Even a small donation, multiplied by many, will make a huge difference. You can donate anonymously if you wish — what matters most is helping a man who has never stopped helping others.

If Lionel has touched your life, or if you simply believe that those who spend their lives in service deserve dignity and care in return, please consider contributing.

Let’s show him the same compassion and hope he has shown to so many.

Lionel has spent over 50 years changing lives. As Chair of the board of trustees Turning Point and later CEO of Newcastle NHS Mental Health Services and Newcastle city health, he dedicated his career to supporting people in recovery from alcoholism, addiction and mental illness. He was honoured with both an OBE in 1997 and a CBE in 2011 from the Queen for his lifelong service, but those who know him will tell you his true legacy lies in the many lives he helped save — people who were lost, hopeless, and found a second chance because Lionel believed in them.

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