Care Beyond Today: Amanda’s story highlights impact of Springhill Hospice care amid rising funding pressures

A local father has shared a deeply personal tribute to his late partner, highlighting the compassionate care provided by Springhill Hospice and warning of growing financial pressures facing hospice services. Danny, who supported his partner Amanda through cancer, is speaking out in support of the Hospice, where she spent her final days in April 2025.

Amanda, aged 41, was diagnosed with malignant melanoma in 2010 and initially given a prognosis of just two years to live. Despite this, she lived for many more years, navigating periods of remission and relapse, all whilst raising her children. In 2024, Danny and Amanda were told they likely had between three and six months left together.

Reflecting on their time at Springhill Hospice, Danny said the experience challenged his expectations of end-of-life care.

“Springhill wasn’t a place of endings. It was a place of warmth, dignity, laughter and life,” he said.

He described everyday moments that became profoundly meaningful during Amanda’s stay, including time spent outdoors, support from nursing staff, and personal touches that helped her retain a sense of identity.

“It’s the small things I’ll always remember. Sitting outside in the sunshine, the nurses taking the time to do Amanda’s hair, painting her nails so she could feel like herself again. In those moments, she wasn’t a patient. She was Amanda. She was still a mum.”

Danny is now calling on the Rochdale community to support Springhill Hospice, as it faces increasing financial pressure while demand for its services continues to grow.

The figures shared by the Hospice show that the cost of providing care has risen by more than £2 million annually over the past five years. Last year, the organisation reported a funding shortfall of over £400,000, with this year’s gap expected to rise to approximately £750,000.

Springhill Hospice estimates it must now raise more than £12,000 per day to maintain services at their current level. While the Hospice continues to deliver care and is not closing, it has warned that the widening gap between costs and income could place increasing strain on future services.

Danny said his motivation for speaking out is to ensure other families can access the same level of care.

“It’s about protecting the moments that matter most. Another mum being able to feel the sun on her face. Another family sharing laughter. Another child making memories they’ll carry forever.”

He added: “I can’t bear the thought of other families missing out on the care that meant everything to us.”

Springhill Hospice provides specialist palliative and end-of-life care to patients and their loved ones across the local community. Its services are delivered for free, funded largely through charitable donations and community support.

Danny is urging members of the public to donate where possible to help sustain services for future families in need. To support Springhill’s Care Beyond Today appeal, please visit https://www.springhill.org.uk/care-beyond-today