Brian moved to Hawthorn House in February 2025 and, from the early days of his transition, expressed a strong motivation to become more independent in his daily living skills. One of his key goals was to learn how to cook his own meals, with a particular focus on developing healthier eating habits.
Initially, Brian set a short-term goal of building confidence and practical skills in the kitchen. This included learning how to plan meals, follow basic recipes, prepare food safely, and make nutritious choices. Healthy cooking quickly became a priority for Brian, as he recognised the positive impact it could have on his overall wellbeing.
With ongoing support and encouragement, Brian steadily developed his skills and confidence. Over time, he progressed to independently preparing fresh, healthy meals for himself, demonstrating both increased independence and pride in his achievements.
Brian’s commitment to these lifestyle changes has led to significant improvements in his health. He has successfully lost three stone in weight and, as a result of his healthier diet and increased independence, is no longer diabetic. This marks a major milestone in Brian’s journey, highlighting how developing practical life skills can support long-term health, wellbeing, and self-confidence.