"Thanks to St Peter's Hospice, Tim was able to fulfil his promise of being at home for Christmas."
Although in very poor health, Tim was determined to stay at home for Christmas with his wife, Gillian, and their children.
However, on Christmas Day his condition worsened. But community nurses from St Peter's came out to help care for him, providing a syringe driver to help with his medication. Tim settled and the family were able to enjoy a wonderful, postponed Christmas at home on Boxing Day. It was a precious time for all the family. As Gillian puts it: "It was like a new flame had burst into life within him at that time."
Sadly, Tim's health declined again in the following days, and he moved to the Hospice's Inpatient Unit at Brentry. "The amazing nurses and counsellors took us by the hand" says Gillian. "They gently lead us through the most unbearable and inconceivable time of our lives." Tim died peacefully a few weeks later, surrounded by his family.
For many of our patients, being cared for at home is their final wish. The warmth, love and sense of security they feel is truly immeasurable. And spending Christmas at home surrounded by loved ones makes this time much more precious.
Some local community services are under immense pressure. A gift to our Home for Christmas Appeal ensures we can deliver our services to help more local patients, providing the support, comfort and dignity they deserve at the end of life.
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