Celebration Of Life announced for Isabella Clark with request to wear favourite clothing to reflect the beautiful person she was...

DETAILS have been released for:- 'A Celebration Of Life for Isabella Mary Clark' from Southport who tragically died, aged:- 21, after a sudden cardiac arrest.

Isabella was a devoted daughter to parents Diane and Aidan who said:- "Isabella passed away suddenly with her family by her side, aged:- 21 years. Isabella will be incredibly missed by all who had the honour of knowing her. A Celebration of Isabella's life will take place at West Lancashire Crematorium on:- Tuesday, 14 October 2025 at 1:00pm. Please wear your favourite clothing to reflect the beautiful person Isabella was. Family flowers only please by request, but if desired donations are being gratefully received for the charity CRY (Cardiac Risk in the Young)."

Donations and further enquiries to:- Wendy and Claire at Hope Funeral Care, 5 Church Street, Southport, Merseyside, PR90QS, or call:- 01704616448.

Her parents Diane and Adrian wrote on their JustGiving page:- "Our beautiful Isabella sadly passed away on 21 August 2025 having suffered an unexpected cardiac arrest. Every week in the UK at least 12 apparently fit and healthy young people die of undiagnosed cardiac conditions. With your donation, CRY can reduce the frequency of young sudden cardiac death (YSCD) by working with cardiologists and family doctors to establish good practice and appropriate screening facilities to promote and protect the cardiac health of our young. By supporting CRY you will help save young lives from these potentially fatal cardiac conditions. See how your support can help by visiting:- https://www.c-r-y.org.uk"

Isabella attended Greenbank High School in Southport before going on to study at Liverpool Theatre School and eventually Wilkes Academy in Swindon.

Paying tribute to the former pupil, Greenbank said:- "We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of our much-loved former student, Isabella Clark. Isabella will be remembered at Greenbank High School for her warmth, kindness and the positive impact she had on those around her. Our heartfelt condolences go out to Isabella's family and friends at this very difficult time."

Alongside her studies, Isabella worked at Victoria Leisure in Southport Town Centre.

A spokesperson for Victoria Leisure in Southport said:- "Isabella Clark was a beautiful dancer, friend, and human being. Just 21 years old, she was taken from us far too soon, and we are absolutely shocked, devastated, and heartbroken. Our love and deepest condolences go out to Isabella's mum, Diane, and her family and friends. We are here for you always. Isabella had been part of our Victoria Leisure family since the age of 16, all while pursuing her dream of becoming a professional dancer. She was the most graceful and radiant performer, with those unforgettable high kicks and effortless splits. All the staff at Victoria loved her dearly. She was an absolute joy to work with and brought light and laughter wherever she went. Beyond her incredible talent, Isabella was creative, hardworking, joyful, and kind. She taught ballet, yoga, pilates, and dance with such passion, and our members adored her classes. She had a gift for making everyone feel welcome; always taking the time to chat after each session with her friendly, easygoing nature. Isabella, you brought light, laughter, and beauty into our world, and your presence will be so deeply missed. RIP our beautiful, graceful dancing queen."

• Isabella Mary Clark.
  Sunrise 18 December 2003.
  Sunset 21 August 2025.

7 Ways to Maintain Our Mental Health as We Age

AS we get older, life can start to feel very different. Long-standing routines shift, friendships change, and mobility may gradually decline. Bereavement, retirement, or children moving away can also lead to feelings of isolation. It is not uncommon to feel as though the world has moved on, especially in a digital age where technology evolves rapidly.

However, ageing well is entirely possible. Thanks to advances in healthcare, technology, and a greater understanding of mental health, older adults can take proactive steps to stay connected, resilient, and engaged:- with life.

With this in mind, Access BDD, specialists of stairlifts offers practical guidance on how to future-proof your mental health, from building connections to embracing new opportunities to support a more positive later life.

1 of the most important steps in maintaining mental wellbeing is creating a home environment that supports independence. Accepting and preparing for the natural changes that come with ageing, allows you to adapt rather than react.

You can begin by reviewing your current living space, considering the conditions below:-

• Could stairs become a challenge?
  

• Are entrances step free and easy to access?
  

• Is the lighting adequate to prevent trips and falls?
  

• Could smart home technology assist with daily tasks?

"Planning ahead with home adaptations such as:- stairlifts can make all the difference to maintaining independence. We always encourage people to consider these options early. It allows you to make informed choices and future-proof your home without the stress of reacting to a crisis." says Bethany Ward at Access BDD. 

Whether you've lost connections to friends and families over the years or generally appreciate solitude. Social connection is a vital part of mental health, yet it can diminish with age due to various life changes. Whatever the reason is that you may have lost connections, a feeling of isolation is common.

The advancement of new technologies can feel intimidating, especially when it replaces more traditional ways of doing things, such as:- communicating. However, it offers fantastic opportunities to stay connected.

Learning to use video calls, messaging apps, and social media can help you keep in touch with friends and family, both near and far.

Many community centres and adult learning services now offer classes designed to help older adults build confidence with technology. In addition, most of these tools can be customised to suit your accessibility needs, making them more user-friendly and inclusive.

In-person interaction remains just as important as digital connection. Joining local walking groups, gardening clubs, or hobby classes can provide regular social contact and shared experiences.

Part-time work or volunteering is another excellent way to add structure and purpose to your week, while also contributing to your community.

Attending community events or enrolling in educational courses can introduce you to new people and interests. Building new connections does take time and effort, but it is 1 of the most powerful ways to enrich life and combat loneliness.

Looking after your mental health requires ongoing attention and a proactive approach. Regular GP check-ups help you monitor both physical and mental wellbeing, ensuring that any emerging concerns are addressed early. Alongside this, daily self-care routines including:- good sleep, a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and keeping physically active, form the foundation of overall wellbeing.

Incorporating practices such as:- mindfulness, relaxation exercises, journalling, or creative hobbies can further support emotional resilience.

If you experience anxiety, stress, or low mood, seeking support through talking therapies or local support groups can provide valuable help and a sense of connection. The more time and effort you invest in your own wellbeing, the better equipped you'll be to navigate the challenges that come with ageing.

As we grow older, it becomes increasingly important to plan ahead, ensuring you're as comfortable and supported as possible during the later stages of life. As you transition to late life beyond retirement and how you stay as comfortable as you can. Knowing that care is available when needed and planning this out would be recommended.

As you grow older, it may become more difficult to keep on top of responsibilities, particularly at times when it matters most. In situations involving your health or finances, having a trusted relative or close friend who can attend important appointments or meetings on your behalf can offer invaluable peace of mind.

Putting a Power of Attorney in place ensures that your affairs are managed, in line with your wishes, even if processing complex information or making critical decisions becomes more challenging.

Planning in this way can provide reassurance and help reduce stress should you endure any difficult times.

Ultimately, being proactive and safeguarding your future can play a powerful role in maintaining your mental health and supporting your independence.

Small, positive steps, whether adapting your home, building new social connections, or prioritising self care, can help you continue to live life on your own terms.

While ageing brings changes, it also offers opportunities for growth, learning, and connection. By embracing these opportunities and planning, you can approach later life with greater confidence, resilience, and optimism.

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