Elderly Lady Loses Eyesight, So Husband Learns to Do Her Makeup to Make Her Feel Beautiful

When his wife’s eyesight deteriorated, one husband decided to help her with an unexpected part of her usual routine. He learned a new skill, and the world loved his kindness and care. 

Spouses want the best for each other, and when one struggles, they struggle together. A husband adored his wife of 56 years and tried to assist her as much as possible when she started losing her sight.  

Des Manahan, 83, first came up with his surprising plan to learn a new skill in 2018 after his wife attended an event. She had her makeup done by a professional, and he noticed how it lifted her spirits and made her feel beautiful. 

THE MAKEUP LESSONS 

His wife, Mona Manahan, 82, could not do her makeup anymore due to the deterioration of her vision. Initially, he did not think much of it because he thought she was beautiful regardless. However, he wanted her to feel her best.   

When Mona went for a beauty tutorial at a Benefit cosmetics counter in Waterford, Ireland, Des started teasing the makeup artist. Amused by his commentary, Rosie O’Driscoll handed Des the brushes—and so his first of many lessons began.   

HE WAS A NATURAL

O’Driscoll shared that he was a natural who loved playing with makeup and learning about the craft. Des attended lessons for eight months and quickly developed his unique style and way of applying products.   

The couple appeared on talk shows and caught the attention of a prominent celebrity makeup artist.

O’Driscoll added: “I think he prefers me to take a step back now and let him off, let him do whatever he wants to do.” 

HIS MAKEUP RULE: LESS IS MORE

Des was adamant about one thing during the makeup routine—less is more. He believed his wife was perfect without makeup and only added a few products to accentuate her natural beauty.

He was also sure to use makeup that did not irritate Mona’s sensitive eyes. Every action and step was considered carefully to suit his wife’s skin tone and personal style.      

THE COUPLE’S FAME

Des and Mona’s story of love quickly touched hearts around the world. The couple appeared on talk shows and caught the attention of a prominent celebrity makeup artist.

Kim Kardashian’s makeup artist, Mario Dedivanovic, invited them to attend his masterclass, and the couple felt like stars. Dedivanovic said: 

“My heart felt so full seeing them there in front of me. My highlight of #TheMasterClass London and of the year.” 

THEY HAVE TRUE LOVE 

Des was happy to have mastered unexpected skills at his age, and while Mona enjoyed getting her makeup done by her husband, she most looked forward to being in his company.

Des constantly sang his wife’s praises whenever he had the chance. He expressed that they still loved each other at 83 and 82, which he believed was all that mattered.  

ANOTHER HUSBAND TOOK CARE OF HIS WIFE

When one half of a couple becomes sick, the other often needs to step up and do more. This year Emily Hime shared her grandparents’ beautiful love story. Her grandmother’s cancer left her bedridden and unable to do her routine chores.

Consequently, Hime’s grandfather did the laundry, cooking, and anything possible for his beloved wife. He told her how beautiful she looked and held her hand until the end. 

Hime’s grandfather and Des showcased true love in action. The men learned new skills and did their best to aid their partners when it was needed most.