For Donna, Easter looked a little different this year, but it still became a chance to make precious memories with her family, surrounded by love, laughter and the thoughtful support of our dedicated clinical team.
Donna was diagnosed with ovarian cancer three years ago, and recently came to the Hospice for pain management. With a long career spent caring for others on a busy haematology ward, she thought she had a clear understanding of what hospice care could offer, but her experience has still surprised her and her family.
Donna said: “I knew the Hospice had a calm and relaxed atmosphere, but I didn’t expect to be able to have so many visitors or that the staff would go out of their way to help us make these kinds of memories. The care has been incredible.”
Surrounded by those she loves, Donna spent the Easter bank holiday weekend creating memories with her family. With help from our team, they made colourful Easter decorations and wreaths, and filled the room with laughter and creativity.
“It wasn’t just about the crafts, it was about being together. They gave us the space and support to just enjoy being a family.”
“I was feeling a little sad as I hadn’t been able to get my grandchildren an Easter egg, but when I woke up on Easter Sunday, the nurses had placed two Easter eggs on my table, so when they came to visit later that day, I had something to give them. It might seem like a little thing, but being able to give my grandchildren those Easter eggs meant everything to me. I just wanted to do something for them, the way I always have.”
Donna says her focus now is getting her pain under control so she can go home. She has decided that when she needs to, she would like to return to the Hospice. “I know it is the right place to be when the time is right. My family had some reservations about me coming here, but all their worries have gone after seeing what a brilliant place the Hospice is.
“The staff don’t make you feel like just another patient. They remember who you are: a wife, mother, sister and grandmother. Everyone here shows such compassion and empathy. It’s a phenomenal place to be even when you’re in such a terrible situation.”
“I’m focusing on the time I have and making sure it’s full of lovely moments, not just for me, but for my grandchildren too. They’ll remember these moments, just like I will.”
And for Donna, that’s what matters most.
