In August 2023, I was introduced to Inez through the Link Age Southwark befriending programme. I had recently moved to London and wanted to build meaningful connections in my new community here. I didn’t realise then just how special this match would become for the next few years.

The moment I stepped into Inez’s house, I instantly felt at home. Her cosy living room was full of family photos, thriving plants, delicious smells of cooking, and sounds from the TV in the background. Her home reminded me of my grandparent’s house in San Francisco and radiated familiarity, warmth and comfort. Wearing bright colours and with her unforgettable toothless smile, Inez instantly welcomed me into her home as if I were family.

Every two weeks, we would spend time together sharing stories about our families, favourite foods and travels, or we would watch whatever show happened to be on at the time. She spoke about growing up in Jamaica and then moving to London, reflecting on her experiences and hardships with remarkable strength and resilience. In addition to her stories, Inez shared bits of wisdom and life advice on adjusting to new places, which eventually helped me settle more into my life here.

We both had a love of food and shared many meals together. Her favourites were breadfruit, ackee, salt fish, fried chicken and chips. It was while eating and telling these stories that she was happiest and I loved seeing her laugh as she reminisced on her life. She also had a love for plants and took good care of all the greenery in her home. She once told me that plants grow best when surrounded by friends – advice that helped me with my own plants, but also shaped how I grew my own community in London.

In early December 2025, Inez passed away peacefully at her home, just one week after we had shared a nice meal together in her living room. I was honoured when her family asked me if I would speak at her funeral, it was a beautiful ceremony and I’m grateful that I could be there to celebrate her life with all her loved ones. Inez made me feel more at home in London and I will always remember her smile, kindness and love that she shared with me.

On 12th April, I will be running the London Landmarks Half Marathon in memory of Inez and to raise funds for Link Age Southwark. Although I will miss Inez deeply, I am beyond grateful to have had this opportunity to befriend her and hope to support others in creating more meaningful connections like ours.

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Any contribution that you can give to Abbey’s Just Giving page is much appreciated and will go directly to supporting programmes at Link Age Southwark.