Joy’s story

“The hospice emotionally held us all and gave us a deeply felt sense of security and made Mum’s passing peaceful for all of us.” 

Joy was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease at the age of 77. Following her diagnosis, she was initially looked after with medication and support from a memory clinic and community care services. As her condition progressed, she became increasingly dependent, eventually becoming bed-bound, unable to clearly communicate her needs verbally, and required round-the-clock care. 

In September 2025, aged 86, after a significant seizure and further decline, Joy was referred to Rennie Grove Peace. The hospice looked after Joy ensuring she was comfortable and restful at all times, whilst also providing emotional and practical support for both Joy and her family, and ongoing bereavement support following her death. 

Her daughter, Sharon, talks about her mum and the compassionate care she received at the end of her life.  Sharon says: 

“Everyone who met her said she was a joy.”

“My mum, Joy, was an extraordinary woman. She was loving, kind, and intuitive – a true people person. She had groups of friends across all areas of her life and a lifelong love of music, travel, and life itself. 

“She had a natural gift for caring and connecting with people. 

Early signs

“At 77, Mum began showing signs of anxiety and losing her sense of time. After memory tests, she was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. Over the years, her dependence on care increased, culminating in her being completely bed-bound by August 2020. 

“Even when she could no longer speak clearly, she would sing jumbled words – and you could see the happiness in her eyes.”

“Despite her decline, Mum’s love of music never faded. Music filled her days, giving her joy and connection even when other abilities slipped away. She remained as warm and loving as she had always been. 

“From the moment the Rennie Grove Peace team arrived, I knew Mum was in the best possible hands.”

“After a further seizure and deterioration in September 2025, Mum was referred to Rennie Grove Peace.  Even as she could no longer recognise people at times, her warm smile and essence remained, and the hospice team ensured she was comfortable and cared for with skill and dignity. 

“They didn’t just listen to Dad – they truly heard him.”

“The nurses looked after Mum, and also supported Dad, giving him space to express his fears and offering reassurance.  

“The team provided not just medical care but emotional support for the whole family, answering questions, explaining medications, and walking us through what to expect with warmth and kindness. 

“They spoke to Mum as if she were fully present, noticing every tiny detail, every little facial expression whether a little smile or a slight frown”

“After the seizure, a syringe driver was set up to manage any possible pain and keep Mum comfortable. The nurses attended to the smallest details with respect and grace, ensuring dignity in every moment. 

“I will never forget the day they noticed a tiny spot of blood on the sleeve of her nightie. They gently and carefully adjusted her clothing, treating her with such tenderness and attention.  

“Even after Mum died, they were there, checking in, making sure we knew we could always reach out.”

“The day after mum died, I had a call from one of the nurses, which meant such a lot to me. 

“Dad continues to have weekly support from an expert listener from Rennie Grove Peace, to help him navigate his grief and loss.  

“Because of Rennie Grove Peace, our memories of Mum’s final days are of love, peace, care, and kindness.”

“The hospice care ensured that Mum’s last days were peaceful and filled with dignity, giving the family comforting memories that have helped all of us in our grieving process. 

“The hospice emotionally held us all”

“The last thing Mum taught us was how to die peacefully – and that wouldn’t have been possible without the Rennie Grove Peace nurses being alongside. 

“Mum’s death was a testament to compassionate care. The hospice emotionally held us all and gave us a deeply felt sense of security and made Mum’s passing peaceful for all of us.”