Kath was diagnosed with Pulmonary Hypertension and received a heart and lung transplant in 2013 which improved her health and enabled her to travel extensively with her husband, witness her daughter get married and see her two grandchildren born. In 2021, Kath was referred to the Hospice. Her husband, Rob, tells their story.
"We went to the Hospice for an introductory meeting with Rehab and Wellbeing Services and could tell straightaway it was an amazing place. We left feeling ridiculously happy that we would be supported again.
"When Kath became worse, we arranged for Hospice at Home to help us. They were marvellous and quickly became part of the family, often stopping longer to chat or catch up on the scores when Strictly was on. We had immense support from them - nothing was too much trouble.
"After a few weeks, Kath experienced breathlessness and was admitted to the Inpatient Unit where they controlled her symptoms. Soon, she was texting pictures to me of her in bed with her breakfast saying 'this is bliss'. She felt so comfy and safe.
"Kath was discharged and stayed at home for a few weeks before she worsened. We were able to get her back into the Hospice in the same familiar, comfortable room she had been in before. By then, we both knew we were looking at end of life."
Kath passed away on 9th November, with Rob and her daughters by her side.
"You like to think the worst won't happen, but when it did, it was as perfect as it could possibly have been and we were all there with her. Importantly, we were given time and space by the Hospice. The reassurance and care was outstanding from start to finish.
"When you speak to the staff, they all say they do it because they love it. So for them to get support from people is amazing. Every time I see someone raising money for the Hospice I make sure I donate, because £5.7 million is a huge amount of money to raise each year. But it's worth every single penny."
