I met Susannah about 12 years back. We met at mutual friends’ parties and BBQs. I really didn’t socialise, I would wash up, keep myself in the kitchen. Susannah’s daughter Josie would play with Alex and James whilst the parents ate and drank. Ten years ago I found myself sitting next to Susannah at Martin’s 50th birthday meal; it was a great evening.

Twenty two months ago I relocated from the Midlands to Horsham. Martin and Paula had encouraged me under covid to move closer to them.

In June 2020 at a party, when Susannah was complaining about hip pains, I slipped her my number (she was managing OOH calls for W12) at another gathering… I even found myself rubbing her struggling hip 😖 

Six weeks later and I arrive in Horsham: new home and new girlfriend.

Since losing Susannah, I have come to understand so much more about her. I’ve also learned so much about how she saw and loved me.

We set up a business together, well that’s not fair, she set up our business. She worked hundred’s of hours to make Check-Mait a success. She did this whilst dealing with hip pain, covid issues, relocation and downsizing. She never complained.

I knew she loved me, but I didn’t know how strong her love for me was until after she passed: I have received many cards and communications from Susannah’s friends attesting to her devotion toward me.

Since her passing, and with Liam’s approval, I have been trying to save our business with Susannah’s systems.

I have secured her Google, Dropbox and mobile number which she used for our business.

The title of this tribute is that “she was the best of me”

She was, because even before I relocated, supported her in her fallout with W12, the subsequent financial challenges and family relocation to Waverley Court, she saw enough in me to reply to another suitor.. “I’m in a relationship” (June 2020)

I moved down August 1st

In getting close to Susannah and her daughter, it became clear that I am on the spectrum: Josie would spend time educating me…

Susannah’s experience with Josie made it easier for her to deal/manage me.

She never complained: she understood me. She was the best of me