19/06/2026
As I sit here with Hope by Felixstowe beach, I realised I haven’t spoken to you all in a little while, so I thought I’d share an update on what’s been happening over these past few weeks.
As many of you know, it’s been an incredibly difficult time after losing our Em. But alongside the grief, there is also a responsibility to keep moving forward because there is our community to take care of. If anything, my passion and determination are stronger than ever.
Today felt like a significant milestone. It was my first time attending a networking event since losing Em. Walking into a room full of people and talking about Hope to Connect felt a little strange without her by my side. But it turned out to be a lovely experience. Seeing familiar faces, meeting new people, reconnecting with old friends who knew both Em and I, and speaking with strangers who have followed our journey from afar made the day feel incredibly special.
It made me think of all those who have lost colleagues and business partners who shared a deep bond, especially those who had no warning and no time to prepare for such a loss. In a strange way, I feel “lucky” that Em and I were given time together and have the chance to make plans as best we could.
I want to say a heartfelt thank you to everyone who has been there for me personally, and to all of you who have offered encouragement, support, kind words, and understanding. This community has become very special to me, and I’m deeply grateful for each and every one of you.
Although I’ve been quieter on social media, life behind the scenes has been incredibly busy. There have been meetings with our app developer, a new line of Hope to Connect merchandise almost ready to launch, exciting partnerships forming with wonderful charities, and several events being planned.
And of course, my favourite part has been spending time with Hope - the car that has become my faithful friend (and to whom I am now a side-kick 😊!) travelling to visit children affected by cancer and helping bring a little smile to their faces.
Since May, Hope has raised just over £1,000. I’m so grateful to everyone who has walked past when she’s been parked up, scanned the QR code, contributed to our crowdfunding campaign, or simply stopped to ask about this wonderful flash of pink. Every conversation, every donation, and every act of support means more than you know.
For those who are wondering what’s next for Hope to Connect, there’ll be events and crowdfunding in the pipeline with new opportunities for like-minded people to get involved. So keep watching our socials and don’t forget to download our interim app, Hope News.
To everyone who has been patient, supportive, and kind; for the cups of tea shared over tears, memories, laughter, and hope - thank you from the bottom of my heart.
Here’s to the future. Despite everything, it’s looking bright, hopeful, and beautiful.
With love,
Mandeep ❤️
