Annie has been part of our nursing team for over eight years and she knows better than anyone that hospice care is about so much more than medicine.
What’s a typical day like?
It’s really varied. Some days I’m helping someone manage symptoms, other times I’m supporting them to achieve personal goals, even something simple, like having a family movie night. Every day is about what matters most to that person.
What does ‘care’ mean to you?
For some, that might mean helping with personal care, having a shower, a shave, and getting into clean clothes. For others, it might be getting outside into the garden for some fresh air.
Why work at Saint Michael’s?
My mum died here and I saw first-hand the difference it made. In previous roles, I often felt frustrated that I couldn’t give people the care they deserved at the end of their life. Here, I can.
A moment you’ll never forget?
I once cared for a gentleman whose first language was Swahili. At the end of life, people often return to their ‘heart language’ so I was able to draw on my own experience to create connection and offer support in Swahili, as I used to be fluent in the language.
What would you say to someone thinking about supporting Saint Michael’s?
Without your support, we simply couldn’t be here.
Like Annie, our team makes a real difference every day. You can help us keep this care going by donating today. Every gift helps to make a real difference to the care we provide.
