North Devon boy’s wish for more time with his nana is granted thanks to the hospice

Nine-year-old Max Willmer has one simple wish - more time with his nana.

The Willmer family’s story has been highlighted as part of the Living Through Loss spring appeal launched last month by North Devon Hospice.

The hospice is bidding to raise £50,000 by the end of March to help more local families get the care and support they need.

When Rosemary Willmer, Max’s grandmother, was diagnosed with an incurable cancer, dark days followed and the future felt unimaginable.

But then North Devon Hospice stepped in and everything changed.

Above: Max, aged nine, is spending as much quality time with his beloved nana as he can, thanks to North Devon Hospice. Credit: North Devon Hospice

Max said: “If it wasn't for the hospice, I don't know if my nana would be here, so I'm just really thankful that I get to spend time with her.”

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The hospice has transformed Rosemary’s outlook – both physically and emotionally – so that she’s able to make the most of every single day despite her life-limiting illness.

The special family sessions at the hospice have been vital, helping children make special memories with their loved ones, while understanding and coping with the tough times to come.

The Living Through Loss appeal will help pay for more bereavement counselling, support groups, art therapies and specialist emotional support for children and families.

The WIllmer family have been happy to share their story to raise awareness for the hospice and how it has helped them.

Rosemary's daughter Claire said: “It's a home-from-home for us now. It's such a welcoming environment. The boys get to spend time with other children going through the same thing.

“It can feel very isolating and confusing for young ones, but the team just make everything feel normal and we can make the most of our time together.”

Rosemary explained what a difference such support makes. She said: “This is not a place where you come to die, it's somewhere that you learn how to live.

“I was very low after my initial diagnosis, but it's been a couple of years now and North Devon Hospice has helped me get to such a positive place, where I look forward to every day and make the most of every moment.”

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Hospice counsellor Jo Palmer, who specialises in supporting children and young people, says demand has never been greater: “We are caring for more patients in their 20s, 30s, 40s and 50s than ever before.

“Sadly, more local children and teenagers are being left to navigate life without a parent. Your support will ensure that no young person has to face that grief alone.”

The Willmers know this better than most. Claire concluded: “Please do consider supporting this appeal. It will help so many people like my mum and Max to make fantastic memories and remember how to live.”

If you would like to donate, please go to https://www.northdevonhospice.org.uk/livingthroughloss