My life was becoming more difficult since my husband died. I'd worked and struggled to make ends meet but it was becoming almost impossible to manage. So, in desperation, I decided to go for equity release on my bungalow. There is quite a bit to do with lawyers, forms, surveyors etc and of course, the fee is not exactly cheap but well worth it if you want to have a quality of life for those years that are left. Through equity release, I have been able to have a complete new kitchen, new refurbishments, new wooden floors with wheelchair access - all to make my life so much easier. I now have some funds for socialization too - my greatest love is concert-going in London. I am a writer, lecturer, and broadcaster with a new book coming out very shortly. So now, at least I have got myself straight and cleared many banking issues that were keeping me awake with worry at night. It is something that I would recommend to those who are toying with the idea - why struggle, why not have peace of mind? I'm happy to talk with anyone who wishes to discuss their worries about how they can manage - especially if there is another dependent person in the house who needs care. So, go for it and begin to enjoy your life again. With best wishes, Dr Lin Berwick MBE