Emmaus launches "Day that changed my life" campaign
The campaign, part of Emmaus' 60th anniversary celebrations, brings together the stories of people who have been homeless, celebrities and the public on a newly launched website: www.daythatchangedmylife.co.uk.
Sophie Hiscock, Communications Manager at Emmaus UK explains: "We all have moments that change our lives, for the better or worse. These are often the times that we most rely on the love and support of people around us. Many people find themselves homeless because they didn't have anyone to help them through one of these difficult moments: bereavement, losing a job or the end of a relationship."
For Steve, it was on December 27th 2002 that his life changed when his wife Sue died of cancer. As he struggled with his grief, he started drinking to help him sleep: “It was only beer or cider at first, but as time went on that bit of alcohol didn’t work anymore and I kept increasing the amount I drank”. Steve’s daughter was taken into Care and his mental and physical health deteriorated.
Finally, for his daughter’s sake, Steve asked for help and went on a detox programme and then joined Emmaus Leeds. At the Community, he has found the support that he needs to cope with problems: “People listen at Emmaus. If you’re feeling down they’ll notice that you’re feeling a bit rough that day and they’ll come and talk to you and not let you fester.”
Emmaus UK President Terry Waite has also contributed to the website, along with Cherie Booth, Jamie Murray, Fern Britton and Wayne Hemingway.
Wayne and Gerardine Hemingway, now and in 1981
Hemingway's life changed when he met his future wife at Angels Disco in Burnley in 1981. He describes how her support and companionship has been a key factor in his success: “Two really are better than one. Having someone to go through life who shares my values and wants to contribute and make a difference to society has been the catalyst for the success we have had and are having.”
Add your voice to the campaign
Many Emmaus Companions (as Community residents are known) have shared their stories but now we need you to join with them to help get their voices heard. You can write it or video it and submit it to the site.
More information
Read more Emmaus stories
Published on 22nd October, 2009
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