The Arsenal Foundation has helped to fund Love And Loss, a charity that runs sessions for families who have lost loved ones to knife crime. Maria Lavor tells us how their work has helped her process her grief.
“I am 61 and originally from Brazil, but I now live in London. In January 2024, my life changed forever when my son’s father – my ex-partner and my best friend – was murdered. He was a devoted father and a huge part of our lives. His loss has deeply affected both me and our son, leaving a pain that words can never fully explain.
“I carry his ashes with me, which is very important to me. It brings me comfort and helps me feel close to him as I continue to navigate life without him. Grief is something I live with every day, but I am learning how to carry it with love and strength.
“I found out about Love And Loss while searching for support after my loss. I needed a space where people truly understood the pain of sudden and violent loss.
“I wanted to attend because I felt overwhelmed and alone. I wanted support not only for myself, but so I could be strong for my son. Love And Loss felt like a place where I could be honest about my grief without judgement.
“From my very first session, I felt welcomed and supported. The sessions are gentle and understanding, allowing people to share, listen or simply be present. There is no pressure – only compassion and respect.
“Each session lasts around two to three hours and takes place monthly. Even after just one meeting, the impact on my emotional wellbeing was very meaningful.
“Love And Loss helped me begin to heal. It gave me a sense of belonging and reminded me that I am not alone. Through the sessions, I found the strength to express my grief in creative ways and to start rebuilding my life.
“Through Love And Loss, I was given the opportunity to share my crochet art. This inspired me to create a small project called Hope, which uses crochet as a way to encourage women to release pain, express emotions and find comfort through creativity.
“Crochet became a form of therapy for me – a quiet and healing process that allows me to honour love while transforming pain into something meaningful. My wish is that Hope will support other women who are experiencing grief or trauma.
“The Arsenal Hub, where the Love And Loss sessions take place, is a welcoming and safe place. It also has special meaning for me because my son’s father was a passionate Arsenal supporter. He and our son used to go and watch Arsenal play together, so being there feels deeply personal.
“I also think the Arsenal and adidas No More Red anti-knife crime campaign is very important. Knife crime destroys families and communities. Campaigns such as No More Red help raise awareness and work towards preventing other families from experiencing this kind of loss.
“Football clubs have a powerful influence. When they support local charities and important campaigns, they show real commitment to the community and help create positive change.
“You are honouring love, memory and strength. I’m truly honoured to help you.”
For more information email info@loveandloss.org.uk or visit loveandloss.org.uk. You can also read more about the work of Love And Loss here.
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