Losing a cherished one is more than just heartbreaking; it’s a wound that never truly heals. And when that loss feels preventable, the pain is all the more unbearable. This is the narrative of Amanda Pape, a widow who can’t help but blame the government’s “eat out to help out” (EOTHO) scheme for the loss of her beloved husband. According to Amanda, her husband Bob’s decline began after a family excursion to Birmingham to partake in the scheme. Despite her reservations, Bob’s faith in the government’s safety assurances led him to the hospital, where he ultimately spent his final days.

Amanda’s sorrow is mingled with frustration at the government’s handling of the EOTHO scheme. Rishi Sunak’s steadfast defence of the policy, despite its apparent contribution to excess deaths, feels like a slap in the face to Bob’s memory and leaves Amanda brimming with anger. She firmly believes that the scheme was rolled out prematurely, reaping no true economic benefits for the country, only devastation.

The tale of Amanda’s loss serves as a stark reminder of the human toll of governmental decisions. It’s a narrative laced with heartache and fury, as Amanda grapples with the knowledge that her husband’s passing may have been avoidable. Her voice, alongside countless others who have endured similar losses, cries out for accountability and justice. She is resolute in her determination to hold those responsible for EOTHO to task, ensuring that their actions do not go unpunished.

Yet amidst her grief and quest for justice, Amanda also reflects on the gaping void left by her husband’s passing. She recalls Bob as a man of integrity and kindness, a devoted father, stepfather, and foster carer. She contemplates the potential impact that all the lost loved ones could have had on the world and those around them. Her introspection stands as a testament to the profoundness of her loss and the collective grief felt by so many.

As Amanda strives to navigate her grief and fight for justice, she shares her story and her unwavering belief that the government should be held accountable. Her voice serves as a poignant reminder that behind every statistic of the pandemic, there are real people with real stories and real pain. It’s a narrative that calls for empathy, understanding, and justice in the face of avoidable tragedy.