The importance of spiritual care – Mary Hewitt’s story

Mary Elisabeth Hewitt from South Elmsall is a cherished member of the community. Unfortunately, Mary's life took an unexpected turn when she received a devastating diagnosis of cancer.

Following her diagnosis, Mary found herself under the care of Dewsbury Hospital, where she was treated with chemotherapy. The treatment took its toll, leaving Mary weakened and in need of additional care. A visiting nurse recommended a referral to the Hospice for specialised treatment and support, and so Mary became a patient in our Incare ward.

We caught up with her and her son, Mick, to tell us about their experience.

Mary said: “It’s absolutely brilliant here, the staff couldn’t do enough. If I wanted something, they brought it. When I wanted an ice lolly to refresh myself, they turned up with an ice lolly. I had problems with my feet and John, the Physiotherapist, gave me a splint to use and take home and return when I don’t need it anymore.”

Above all the treatments and support provided, what truly lifted Mary’s spirits was the spiritual support. As a regular churchgoer, she found solace in her faith, and Rod, the Spiritual Care Lead at the Hospice, became a comforting presence during her stay.

Rod himself emphasised the significance of spiritual care, explaining: “Spiritual care is about understanding how someone sees the world and what's important to them, especially when life takes an unexpected turn and they are facing big questions.

"We're all connected, so being able to talk openly about what matters to us is really important. We supported Mary’s Christian faith while she was here with us and it brought her comfort. The Spiritual Care Team is here to support people of all faiths or no faith because we're all on this journey of life together.”

Mary’s son, Mick, spoke of their link with the Hospice: “We are big supporters of the Hospice. There is a charity shop in South Elmsall, we donate items regularly and shop there. Winnie, my mum’s sister, worked in the Hospice shop as well.

"A couple of years ago, I completed a sponsored bike ride and half of the money - £1,500 - was donated to the Hospice.”

Mary added: “We’d like to continue to support the Hospice because their services are vital to the community, and we know how hard it is to keep their services running.”