“Mum was bubbly, friendly and so easy to talk to. She was the kind of person that if you were sitting on the bus next to, you might have told your whole life story to by the end of the journey!
She adored her grandchildren and greatchildren, and was always there for me, my brother and my Dad.
She loved to travel and went on some amazing trips including to Malaysia and on cruises.
Mum was diagnosed with breast cancer 11 years ago. In her last year of life, she couldn’t get out like she used to.
Saint Michael’s healthcare assistants came to support my mum and our family at home. They were really lovely.
Find out more about how we care for local people at home
“Eventually, she got to the stage where she couldn’t swallow and the team suggested she go into the hospice. Mum was initially not keen to go as she was quite private when it came to personal care and was worried about sharing a room.
Our healthcare assistant was so kind and reassuring explaining how she would have her own room and that staying may help her feel more comfortable, as well as help manage her medication.
When mum eventually arrived at the hospice with our family following behind, things were so much better than what we expected. From the minute we rang the bell, everything was absolutely exceptional.
I can’t even find the words to explain how wonderful Saint Michael’s was- just outstanding.
Even mum herself said to me that it was a beautiful place. The building and surroundings are all exceptional.
Read about our Crimple House Hospice, and care for those at the end of life
“The respect and dignity was second to none. It was the little things than meant so much to me and showed the team’s commitment to their roles. It’s more than just nursing- these were personal touches because they really knew and cared about Mum.
For example, while Mum was in her final hours, the healthcare assistant put knitted love hearts above Mum’s head. My son, daughter and I all take these everywhere with us now and it’s such a special way to remember her.
Also, shortly after Mum died, they placed a beautiful Gerba flower by Mum’s head. Now, whenever I see Gerbas, I think of Mum.
Every time the team helped turn Mum or washed or dressed her, they did it so beautifully in a way that was just right. Mum’s end of life care was exactly how I wanted it to be.
It really was a whole family: Saint Michael’s looked after all of us, making sure we were ok and had eaten.
If you’ve not been in that position before, you don’t know what to expect or what to do. The team explained everything so clearly and we could ask them any questions about Mum’s care.
The fridge and family kitchen was a godsend- just to have snacks and drinks to hand when we didn’t want to leave Mum made such a difference.
Laura, the chef, was so lovely and thoughtful. When we were staying with mum, she brought us all toast and later sandwiches which we were so grateful for.
When Trish, the nurse, called me when it was clear that Mum didn’t have long left, she do so with such care- I am full of admiration for her. When I asked what I should do, she kindly let me know that it was my choice to make.
The doctors including Clare explained that when Mum became unresponsive, she may still be able to hear us and we should continue talking to her. All of their communication really helped our family.
There are so many people in the Saint Michael’s team to thank and they are all outstanding.
Thinking about joining our team? Hear what it’s like to work at Saint Michael’s
“I didn’t even know that Saint Michael’s existed before but now I want to help the charity as much as I can.
I couldn’t believe that so much of their funds come from donations. I will now always take my items to Saint Michael’s charity shops and would like to help with fundraising. We’re hoping to go to our first Light up a Life at the hospice this Christmas to remember mum alongside other families.
