Naomi’s Story

“My name is Naomi and I just wanted to share my family’s story. Thanks to people like you my Grandad, Peter, was able to receive the most amazing care from the Hospice and we were able to spend a magical 5 weeks together making memories at the Hospice.

We had been on so many holidays as a family to places like Pontins and caravanning. Grandad said that the time he spent at the Hospice was the happiest he had ever been; it felt like being on a holiday with the quality time we spent together.

Grandad was a hardworking family man who supported his family by fitting kitchens and bathrooms. Every weekend Sully, my 5 year old son, would look forward to spending Saturday’s with his Grandad going on adventures like going to the park and playing on the swings. Grandad was always really fit for his age and would run around after Sully. He looked after me and my sister from a young age and was like our Mum and Dad to us. He was the kindest most gentle man who put everyone else first.

At the end of November in 2024 Grandad was struggling with chest pain that was getting worse. After investigations he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. He received treatment at The Christie, but sadly this wasn’t helping to manage his pain. It was then that Springhill was mentioned to us.

When you first hear the word hospice you automatically think the worst, but when Gemma, one of the Specialist Nurses came to visit us, she worked her magic. She changed all his medications and the dosage, and for the first time since his diagnosis his pain was finally being managed. Coming in we felt a massive weight had been lifted, as we finally felt looked after.

Spending time at the Hospice has completely changed my perspective on death. Sully called the Hospice “Grandad’s new apartment”, he loved it. He would walk in say hello to everyone on reception, give Wilson, the Hospice dog, a treat and run down to see Grandad. Everyone knew Sully and waved to him and gave him special surprises. We were fortunate that we were able to stay in the family rooms, this meant that we could have privacy when we needed it but often still had sleepovers in Grandad’s room. Seeing Sully cuddled up with Grandad was so special to me and I am so grateful for all of the special memories we were able to make.

Grandad died with a smile on his face because of how loved he felt at the Hospice. Even though this was the worst possible thing that had happened to our little family, everything felt so calm and peaceful because the Hospice is such a magical place. Thank you so much for all the support you have given to the Hospice, it really does make such a difference.”

If you would like to help more people like Peter, Naomi and Sully please consider donating to our Sunflower Appeal.