Harold Hope is facing a tough winter. Living in his motorhome at Swansea Marina, the 67-year-old former lecturer is battling motor neurone disease (MND) and is desperately hoping for a more suitable place to live. Diagnosed in 2023, Harold finds comfort in staying near his friends and support network at the marina, but with winter approaching, he’s unsure how much longer he can manage.
Harold was offered a flat after his diagnosis in Waun Wen but turned it down, wanting to remain near his social circle. “It’s my fault in many respects because I don’t want to move away from my social network,” he admits. As the cold creeps in, and with his condition worsening, Harold is fifth on the council’s housing list for a spot in the marina but has no idea how long the wait will be.
Living in a motorhome presents daily challenges. Harold struggles with basic tasks and worries about how much longer his body can cope. “All my support network are saying, ‘You can’t do another winter in the motorhome.’ My heart tells me that I can but my body tells me I can’t.”
Despite the challenges of MND, Harold considers himself lucky to still be able to speak and have no issues with breathing or swallowing. Yet, acknowledging that he will soon need carers, he worries about how little time he might have left. “I know I’m going to need carers. I’m increasingly concerned. I don’t know if I’ve got six months, 12 months or two years. Some people live for longer.”
Swansea Council assures they are doing all they can to find Harold a suitable home. He has been registered with the Adapt scheme, which seeks appropriate properties with necessary adaptations. Though opportunities are scarce, the hope remains for a new home where Harold can be comfortable and still be near the community he cherishes.
Let’s hope Harold finds the warmth and security he needs this winter, away from the harsh realities of motorhome life.