Pauline's story

Pauline has been married to Graham for 53 years.  Together they have one son, and two grandsons.  After having her kidney removed in 2014, the surgeon told Pauline that she was at medium risk of her cancer returning and that if it did, it would be in her lung.  That is exactly what happened.
 
In January 2017, Pauline’s health deteriorated quickly.  She was experiencing problems breathing and swallowing, and was also in a lot of pain.  She was referred to the Hospice by her Macmillan nurse, and admitted on February 14th.  When she arrived at the Hospice, Pauline hadn’t eaten properly for two weeks, and she hadn’t been able to bath or shower either.  Pauline was given oxygen and medication and was soon able to eat blended food, before moving on to solid food.
 
Pauline said:  “When I first found out that a bed was available at  the Hospice, I honestly thought that’s where I need to be.  I desperately needed the help given to me.  You mention ‘Hospice’ to people and they think it’s all doom and gloom. It couldn’t be further from the truth.  It’s all wrong.”
 
“This is a wonderful place.  The staff are marvellous.  When I came in I hadn’t had a bath or a shower for three weeks.  Having a shower the other day made me feel like I’d won the lottery.  At home, no matter how ill I feel I always do my hair, so being able to have it washed was fantastic.  In here, I am allowed to feel normal.”
 
Husband Graham has also been looked after by the Hospice staff.  Pauline explains:  “He has been asked how he feels.  A lot of people don’t realise it’s not only the one with the cancer that needs looking after, but the family needs support too.  Graham didn’t cope very well with it, but I know him better than he knows himself.  I know now that he is doing a lot better."

 Graham said:  “This place has done as much for me as it has for Pauline.  It has eased my worries.  When she was at home, I used to panic a bit, but now she is in here I go home knowing that she is being looked after perfectly.”
 
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