With support from our Wellbeing Team, Graham and Susan recently made the decision to get married! Graham, who has terminal cancer, says he’s living life to full.
“We had a lovely day getting married in Scarborough. We
celebrated over fish and chips and then went to the slotties with our children and grandchildren. We had pictures in the beautiful garden there.
“Catherine from Saint Michael’s Wellbeing team has been guiding us through the process following Graham’s diagnosis. In the midst of hospital treatments, we were completely lost and felt like we’d hit a brick wall. We were drowning. Graham was really depressed and struggling to carry on.
“It was amazing for Catherine to come out to our house and she’s guided us through. We didn’t know what we were doing- we’ve never been in this situation before. She’s given us lots of practical tips and we always know we can ring her.
“With Catherine’s help, we’ve had a checklist of things to do before Graham dies like sorting our will and planning our finances. Part of this led us to tie the knot- 33 years after we first met on a blind date! We had a special letter from the doctor so the wedding could take place quickly because of Graham’s illness. It was a really nice day.
Find out more about Saint Michael’s Wellbeing Network
“We were invited to have a look around the hospice, which helped us make an informed decision. It’s beautiful here and even better than expected. Visiting has helped me come to terms with the fact that I’m doing to die.” said Graham.
Graham added: “It’s like I’ve turned a corner. I was frightened before- even as a 64 year old man. Following the visit to Saint Michael’s, I feel at peace and it’s really uplifted my spirit.”
Susan said “hearing about the care that Saint Michael’s give was amazing. Such a relief. I know the Wellbeing team will still be here for me after Graham dies.”
Graham said: “At Saint Michael’s, I feel really looked after and that I will have the best death I could have.
“A lot of people don’t want to talk about dying but doing so has really helped me. I’ve got a choice here. I’m not worrying about it now. I’ve accepted it.
Explore our “talking about dying” page
“I find that making jokes here and there helps to take the edge off and calm things down. Having conversations and being honest is best.
“People who are dying need to know that it’s not wrong. They have a right to what they want and what they don’t want.
Our Wellbeing Network is an unfunded service, provided free to people like Graham and Susan at the point of need. We are so grateful to our community whose support powers vital care like this.
