The special moments you've made happen - North Devon Hospice

Special moments you’ve made happen for our patients and families this summer at North Devon Hospice, by Senior Staff Nurse Kerry

For many of us, summer is often a nostalgic time and the perfect season for memory-making. Here at your local hospice, there have been lots of sunshiny moments for patients and families this summer. Today, I wanted to share just a few of them with you to brighten your day and show you the incredible difference you’re making to the people in our care.

Back in June, a patient wanted to celebrate Father’s Day in the way she always had – with a beautiful family dinner. So, while our Catering Team got to work preparing a delicious roast dinner complete with all the trimmings, two of our lovely nurses set about decorating the table in our Patient Lounge.

They laid out a crisp white tablecloth, cutlery, and glasses before picking a fresh bunch of flowers from the garden for an extra homely touch. To make the occasion even more special, the patient’s family got dressed up in their finery and her husband brought in her favourite dress of cornflour blue for her to wear – she looked lovely! That afternoon, there were lots of smiles and laughter and the family made some beautiful memories just as they would have done at home.

In July, we saw Carloz Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic compete in the Men’s Wimbledon Final and for one gentleman staying with us on the Bedded Unit, the tournament was the highlight of his summer. As the final nail-biting sets were played, we delivered a decadent treat of strawberries and cream and a refreshing glass of Pimms to his hospice bedroom to give him the full Wimbledon experience. These little luxuries made his day!

August saw even more special moments at the hospice. One morning, a patient explained how she’d love to see her son get married but that the wedding wasn’t until later in the year. So, after discussions with the family, rather than delay the nuptials, we decided to bring the wedding to her! Following some speedy preparations, a beautifully intimate ceremony took place just a few days later – complete with a gorgeous wedding cake - and the patient’s son was married in the stunning surroundings of her hospice bedroom balcony. For her, this day meant everything, and we were privileged to play a part in it.

For another lovely lady who has recently gone back home, coming to the hospice last month was about resting and recuperating so she could get back to doing some of the things she loves. While at first, she was apprehensive about her new surroundings, we did everything we could to make her feel right at home including welcoming her doting dog to the Bedded Unit for strokes and cuddles! Knowing that her beloved dog and husband could visit every day made a real difference to this patient and she was able to truly relax in her new home-from-home.

On behalf of these patients and families and the many more we can care for because of your unwavering support, thank you.