S3 - EP14 - Charlotte Cannell: Widowed at 27: Sudden Loss and Stolen Futures

In this episode, Rosie Gill-Moss speaks with Charlotte Cannell about losing her fiancé Craig to a brain aneurysm when she was just 27 years old.

Their conversation explores the devastating impact of sudden loss on a young woman who had been with her partner since she was 16, and how she rebuilt her life through travel, family support, and finding new purpose.

Charlotte shares the harrowing twelve days she spent by Craig's bedside in intensive care after he collapsed during a council meeting in November 2020. Despite initial hope when he regained consciousness and recognised her, complications including sepsis ultimately led to his death.

The discussion delves into the unique challenges facing young widows, particularly those without children. Charlotte candidly explores grieving not just Craig, but the future they had planned together - their wedding booked for July 2023, the children they hoped to have, and the life they were building in Essex. Her decision to legally take Craig's surname through deed poll, despite never marrying, demonstrates the depth of their bond and her determination to honour their relationship.