Kathleen and Colin's story of care at East Lancashire Hospice

After Colin was diagnosed with skin cancer, he was referred to East Lancashire Hospice for support from the Hospice at Home team. 

In the last three weeks of Colin’s life, the Hospice at Home team visited regularly. They helped with washing and personal care, both during the day and overnight, giving Kathleen time to rest or go shopping for a few hours each day. 

She said: “They gave me time to breathe. The support I received meant everything; it meant I could properly rest, knowing Colin was in safe hands.”

After Colin’s death, Kathleen decided to attend the Bereavement Support Cafe at East Lancashire Hospice. 

Kathleen added: “I love coming to the Bereavement Cafe, the group has helped me so much, I feel I’m meant to be here for some reason; it gives me comfort visiting the Hospice, and it’s been a great place for me to meet people who are going through the same thing.” 

During the festive season, Kathleen suggested holding a quiz and creating Christmas crafts at the Bereavement Cafe, which resulted in the group creating memory baubles to take home. 

For Kathleen, the hospice is not just a place of care, but a place of connection.

She said: “When I come into the hospice, it’s nice to see the people who cared for my husband, like Chris and Leah from the Hospice at Home team. Seeing those familiar faces reminds me of him, but also how well he was cared for.”

For many, the idea of visiting a hospice can feel daunting, but Kathleen wants to reassure people that East Lancashire Hospice is a place of warmth, laughter and care. 

She said: “For anyone thinking of attending the hospice, I would definitely recommend it. It gives you a feeling of belonging. It’s a very welcoming space. Some people question me when I tell people that I really look forward to going to the Hospice, but I explain it’s not what you imagine, it’s welcoming, not clinical at all.”

Looking ahead, Kathleen says she would not feel afraid if she ever needed the hospice’s support herself.

She said: “If I ever needed the Hospice, I would not be afraid to come.”

Despite Colin’s death, Kathleen feels grateful for the life they shared.

She said: “I consider myself very lucky. What Colin and I had was something very special. I hope everyone finds a Colin, because this world would be a better place. I’ve got a good support network of friends, and my two daughters, Alison and Carol, look after me. I’m very grateful.”

If you would like to find out more about the services available at East Lancashire Hospice, visit www.eastlancshospice.org.uk