Let me tell you a bit about Arthur...

He is a 93 yr old -94 on April 26th- Navy veteran who served in World War 2. On VE day Arthur's ship was in Portsmouth, they were taken to Brighton where Arthur led the march along the seafront to celebrate the end of the War.

He is a remarkable man who has not only had to deal with the death of his wife in recent years but with progressive sight loss as well. As a result of both he suffered from health issues and from isolating himself from the world.

This is where Nicola has stepped in, she is part of East Sussex County Councils Support with Confidence programme and along with the community care team, adult social care and gp's they have transformed him, improving his confidence and keeping him in his own home. Nicola has since been joined by her 17 year old daughter Liyah who voluntarily assists Arthur at weekends.

They have used music to reminisce and have made our own play list on spotify! - it is Liyah in the video with him

Over time Arthur had increased his memory so a new song was sung and slowly his strength came back to where the odd dance to the dining table was also a very effective exercise tool! 

Arthur himself said " I would like to start by saying What should we do without you? Nicola and the nurses I believe are chosen, they are true angels. I look forward to Nicola's visits every day, not least to relieve any loneliness I might have.Thank you to ALL.

Arthur has set himself a target of £94 for his birthday but we can do better than that can't we! You can also say Happy Birthday to Arthur using the #happybirthdayarthur  

Bop for the Beacon is helping to raise awareness of the amazing commitment of nurses and clinical teams across Sussex through dance! Dance, record and upload your videos with #BopForTheBeacon and tag in the @SussexBeacon to show solidarity and support for these amazing people at this tough time.