Ten weeks ago, Katy Powell’s world turned upside down. At just 36, the devoted mum of four: Noah (16), Dylan (13), Edith (eight), and Anna (one) was diagnosed with metastatic bowel cancer. What began as vague symptoms became a devastating reality during a family holiday in Majorca.
Back home in Allerton Bywater, life had been full of the usual chaos and love that comes with raising a young family. But suddenly, Katy and her husband Daniel were thrown into a whirlwind of hospital stays, tests, and uncertainty.
Daniel told us, “From the moment we arrived, everything changed. Here, they really listen. The attentiveness of the staff is incredible.”
Katy had just ten days at home after her diagnosis before she was referred for palliative care. Katy’s room at the hospice is now more than just a bed; it’s a sanctuary. From the start, the team encouraged them to make it feel like their own, and they did. An electronic photo frame plays joyful memories of her and her children, Edith’s drawings brighten the walls, and soft colourful blankets bring comfort to the sofa where her family sit, chat, laugh and share beloved memories. Katy was even able to bring a fridge into her room, so she could enjoy the cold drinks she loves, another small touch that makes a big difference. Friends and loved ones come and go freely, with no restrictions separating Katy from those she holds closest.
“I didn’t know this side of hospice care existed. They’ve thought of everything, not just for me, but for all of us.”
But the care goes far beyond the clinical. The hospice’s Wellbeing Team has wrapped around the whole family, offering support Katy never expected.
Katy told us, “I didn’t know this side of hospice care existed. They’ve thought of everything, not just for me, but for all of us.” She added, “I might not be able to remember their names, but they never forget mine.” That personal touch has made all the difference.
The whole family has found comfort through complementary therapy. Katy has received gentle treatments that help ease her pain and bring moments of calm. Daniel shared: “I didn’t realise how tense I was until I had a Reiki session.” Katy added: “I’ve made mum get a massage too. It makes me feel better knowing they’re also being looked after.”
On occasion, Daniel has also been able to stay overnight at the hospice. “It’s made things feel semi-normal,” he said. “I’ve had the best night’s sleep I’ve had in a long time.”
The Wellbeing team even organised a special afternoon tea in the Garden Room, bringing together both sides of Katy’s large family. For the children, a Halloween party was arranged, with costumes, laughter, and memories that will last a lifetime.
“Katy’s always thinking of others, even in the middle of everything she’s facing,” her mum, Mags, told us.
Katy is a teaching assistant at the local primary school, and both she and Daniel are well-known in their community. They decided they wanted to give something back to the Hospice. They set up a fundraiser in partnership The Matthew22 Fund, who will donate the money raised to the Hospice, they also gave a substantial donation to the Hospice itself. Within 24 hours of launching a fundraiser, they raised over £3,000.
Daniel said, “We can’t put into words how much we appreciate the hospice and the team. Right from when we walked through those doors, they’ve been amazing.”
Katy shared this message on her fundraising page: “I’m now in a lovely hospice, managing my pain and keeping comfortable until the time comes.”
Through their fundraiser, Katy and Daniel hope to ensure other families can experience the same compassion, dignity, and comfort they’ve found in a true home-from-home during the most difficult times.
If you would like to donate, you can find their fundraising page here: https://www.justgiving.com/page/katy-pow
