A local dog groomer has described her honour at representing Bedford, after becoming a finalist at the Southern Region Animal Star Awards in the category of ‘Dog Groomer of the Year’ taking place in Portsmouth in May.
Michelle Jackson, a former special education needs teacher and charity worker, began to follow her dream career in dog grooming after a tragic incident which saw her fiancé, Jon, pass away four weeks before their wedding in March 2022.
Now, Michelle is thriving in her new career, having made the life-changing decision that has led her to running her own dog grooming business, Love Hounds Bedford.
This was no mean feat, given that Michelle and Jon were not yet married, and Michelle was not eligible for life insurance, pension contributions or bereavement support payments.
“I was a single-income household with a mortgage to pay, but I managed to make it work,” says Michelle.
However, thanks to the assistance of charity, Widowed and Young (WAY), Michelle has been able to bounce back, winning awards for service excellence in Bedfordshire, and is now being recognised in the southern region for her work in dog grooming.
A chance to connect
In addition, Michelle offers a safe place for widows to “talk and connect”.
“Looking back three years ago, I could never have imagined where I would be today. My world was turned upside down,” says Michelle.
“If someone had told me back then that I’d be running a thriving business and receiving awards, I wouldn’t have believed them.
“But here I am, and I want people to know that there is hope. Your life can change, you will smile again and better days are ahead.”
Michelle credits WAY with helping her back on her feet, offering emotional and practical support as she worked towards her dream of running her own dog grooming business, which is flourishing.
“It was a tough period, but WAY offered more than just support. It gave me friendship, community and solidarity. I found genuine empathy and a group of people who understood what I was going through.
“The support I received through WAY was unlike anything else. It feels like a family I never knew I had.
“Through WAY and my business, I’ve learned that, even after the darkest times, there can be light. You can rebuild your life, find fulfilment and make new connections. I’m living proof that you can smile again and that better days are possible.”
The Animal Star Awards 2025 take place in Portsmouth on 25 May.
If you have been affected by any of the themes raised in this article, you can visit the Widowed and Young website here.
