Sue’s mum, Jenny, was cared for by our Hospice at Home team. She explains:
“Mum’s illness came on quickly. Suddenly, she was in a hospital bed in the dining room and we were just muddling through. We were exhausted and angry.
“Then a friend recommended Rennie Grove Peace Hospice Care. The Hospice at Home team came and cared for her at home in the last few weeks and were the calm in our storm.
“For two weeks an incredible team of nurses helped our family in so many ways. The nurses were so special. Nothing was too much trouble. They helped with medication and care. They advised on ‘what to expect.’ Although those were the words we didn’t want to hear, their knowledge was incredible. They helped us prepare for the end.
“We are so grateful for the help, compassion, and care that the Rennie Grove Peace Hospice at Home team gave our mum and family. They were empathetic and aware of what we all needed, when we needed it.”
When Diarmuid’s wife, Pauline, was admitted to the Inpatient Unit (IPU) at Peace Hospice in Watford for symptom control and end-of-life care, staff arranged magic moments for her. From a christening celebration to a St. Patrick’s evening in Watford, Pauline’s final months were as normal as possible. Diarmuid explains:
“Pauline was Irish-born and loved St. Patrick’s Day. Realising how important this was to her, nurses at Peace Hospice arranged for her to go out to celebrate it with her friends and family. They organised medicines and got Pauline dressed to celebrate in town. Pauline returned after a prosecco (or two) and was full of laughter and smiles. It was so good of them to go the extra mile to make this happen, it became one of our special memories.
“Every day the staff at Peace Hospice were beyond excellent. They kept us informed at all stages. There was nothing they wouldn’t do. No question that they would shy away from. If they didn’t know something, they found the answer. Pauline built such a rapport with them which made such a difference at that stage of her life. Many of the Peace Hospice staff attended Pauline’s funeral, which meant so much to us as a family. Having only known Pauline for a short time, they were as upset as we were which really shows just how much they care.”
Sue and Diarmuid are sharing their experiences to encourage local people to support our Christmas appeal, to fund specialist care and support for people with a life-limiting illness this festive period. Click here to find out more and donate today.