A new start after 60: I adopted a Guide Dog mum
After her husband died suddenly, and her children left home, teacher Helen Smith started to question everything in her life. Then a radio programme about a shortage of Guide Dogs gave her an idea
TL;DR
- Helen Smith moved to Germany in 1998 and stayed after her husband's death in 2011 to support her daughters.
- Feeling isolated post-pandemic and affected by Brexit, Smith decided to return to the UK in 2022.
- She was inspired by a radio report about a shortage of guide dogs.
- Smith became a 'guide dog mum,' caring for Blossom, a guide dog, and later her puppies.
- This role has given her a new sense of purpose, confidence, and community.
- Guide Dogs covers Blossom's expenses, and Smith will care for puppies for seven weeks before they begin training.