“Hitler, you didn’t win. I won.”

At Novus Care, we have the privilege of supporting many incredible individuals, but some stories leave a lasting impression on everyone involved. One such story is that of one of our clients Harry Spiro (BEM) — a Holocaust survivor, one of the last remaining Windermere Boys, and a gentleman whose life represents extraordinary resilience, love and determination.

A childhood changed by war

Harry was born in 1929 in Piotrków Trybunalski, Poland, and grew up in a religious Jewish household alongside his parents and younger sister. His early childhood was filled with family traditions, faith, and a close-knit community. He fondly recalls Friday evenings, when the neighbourhood would come alive as families prepared for synagogue together.

Everything changed in 1939 when Germany invaded Poland. Piotrków became the first city where the Nazis established a Jewish ghetto. At just 10  years old, Harry witnessed his world transform into one of fear and oppression. Streets he once played on became heavily patrolled by soldiers, and Jewish families were forced to live under brutal and dehumanising conditions.

Despite his young age, Harry worked to help support his family, securing a job in a glass factory by lying about how old he was. In October 1942, an announcement was made that only those working at the factory would be allowed to leave their homes. Harry wanted to stay with his family, but his mother insisted he go to work — a decision that ultimately saved his life.

While Harry was at the factory, the Piotrków ghetto was liquidated. Around 22,000 people, including his family, were deported to Treblinka extermination camp, where they were murdered. Harry’s final contact with his mother was a heartbreaking note she slipped through the slats of a cattle truck, expressing her love and hope that someone from their family would survive.

Survival against the odds

Harry endured unimaginable hardship, including forced labour, imprisonment in several concentration camps including Buchenwald, starvation, and a brutal death march to Theresienstadt. Of the 3,000 people forced on that march, only 270 survived. Harry was among them and was eventually liberated by Soviet forces in May 1945.

Following the war, Harry was one of 732 child survivors brought to Britain — later known as “The Boys”, including the famous Windermere Boys. In Windermere, Harry experienced kindness and safety for the first time in many years and began rebuilding his life.

Building a Life and Legacy

Harry went on to learn English, work tirelessly, and establish a successful tailoring business in North London. In 1957, he married his wife Pauline, and together they built a loving family that now spans four generations — a powerful legacy that stands in defiance of everything the Holocaust attempted to destroy.

Awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM).

In later life, Harry chose to share his experiences publicly, speaking in schools, live webcasts, and interviews. His message remains clear and powerful — hatred destroys, but education can change the world.

In recognition of his dedication to remembrance and education, Harry was awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM).

Harry often reflects on his life with remarkable strength and clarity, summarising his survival with the powerful words: “Hitler, you didn’t win. I won.”

Our privilege to provide care

We first began supporting Harry in 2024, providing twice-weekly visits to assist with day-to-day living. When Pauline sadly experienced a fall and required hospital treatment, Harry’s needs increased. We were able to quickly arrange a live-in carer to support Harry while Pauline recovered.

Since September, Harry has received live-in care and during Pauline’s recovery, we supported them both as a couple. Once Pauline regained her independence, our support returned to focusing solely on Harry.

Harry’s live in carer focuses on promoting independence, dignity, safety, and companionship, ensuring he can continue living comfortably in his own home. We always encourage Harry to remain as independent as possible while providing reassurance and assistance when needed.

One of the most important aspects of Harry’s care is companionship. Harry values conversation and connection and someone being there throughout the night ensures Harry remains safe and comfortable.

Honoured to be part of Harry’s story

Supporting Harry is a privilege for everyone at Novus Care. To know Harry is to witness extraordinary resilience, humility and dignity. His life is not only a story of survival but one of rebuilding, educating, and ensuring history is never forgotten.

Harry’s story deserves to be shared and remembered.

Learn more about Harry’s story
BBC News: How my grandad survived the Holocaust
Jewish Chronicle: My mother saved my life
Conversation with Rob Rinder (Holocaust Memorial Day interview)
Loft Box Interview: Harry Spiro – Holocaust Survivor