In the work of caring for others, it’s not always easy to see the impact of connection and prevention in real time – but at Wider Circle, we see it every day. That’s why we share stories like this: to show how the work we do together is truly making a difference
This edition of Stories from the Circle features Alexandra E., who rediscovered her sense of purpose, confidence, and health after the loss of her husband, thanks to the support and friendship she found in her Wider Circle community.
Check out the video below to hear how connection helped Alexandra find joy again and take charge of her health.
We hope her story reminds you of the healing power of community, and the lasting difference that care and compassion can make.
Alexandra E.
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After losing her husband of nearly 50 years, Alexandra found herself overwhelmed by grief and struggling to move forward. The emotional toll was heavy and soon began affecting her physical health as well.
The sadness and stress took a physical toll, leading to high blood pressure for the first time in her life, enough that her doctor had to put her on medication.
Alone and uncertain, Alexandra faced a new reality and didn’t know where to turn. “I didn’t feel in control,” she said.
But everything began to shift when she joined Wider Circle. Surrounded by a caring community, Alexandra felt safe enough to open up again.
Through weekly gatherings, new friendships, and encouragement from facilitators, she started stepping outside, to events, lunches with friends, and became a regular at Wider Circle events.
“Meeting new people made me realize you have to love yourself and take better care of yourself,” she shared.
As her sense of connection grew, so did her commitment to her own health. Alexandra began walking regularly, eating more mindfully, and making her well-being a priority.
Alexandra lost 30 pounds and has kept it off. “It’s a beautiful gift for me,” she said.
Her stress began to ease too, and the impact was clear: her blood pressure improved so much that her doctor lowered her medication dosage. “I feel like I’m back in control.”
But for Alexandra, the biggest change wasn’t just finding joy – it was discovering a community she could give back to.
Now a proud Wider Circle Ambassador, Alexandra plays an active role in her community. “I look forward to meeting the other ambassadors and talking about how we can make everybody else feel good,” she shared.
She regularly helps organize and host local events—and was even nominated for a Wider Circle Ambassador Award in recognition of her dedication.
“I now have a purpose in life,” she said. “By feeling good, I can help other people feel good too. That’s the most beautiful reward.”
Alexandra’s story is a powerful reminder that community doesn’t just lift spirits, it transforms lives. When we create space for people to feel connected, valued, and seen, healing follows.
Thank you, Alexandra, for reminding us that it’s never too late to find a new beginning, and that even small steps toward connection can lead to lifelong change
And thank you to our sponsors for helping make moments like this possible. Your support helps bring life-changing connection and care to members like Alexandra every day.
About the author: Jamie Zale
Wider Circle
