In August Jenny was admitted to Cynthia Spencer following a diagnosis of a rare form of cancer. A subsequent diagnosis of portal vein thrombosis meant her condition greatly deteriorated and she was rapidly losing weight and had become extremely poorly.

Jenny herself had become a big supporter of the hospice having attended the wellbeing service early on into her illness and also spent time as a volunteer serving drinks in the hospice coffee shop. Lora recalls: “Mum was such a chatty and friendly person, working in the coffee shop and talking to visitors and families really suited her personality”.

In July Jenny received the news that it was unlikely she would survive until Christmas and sadly passed away on 3rd October that year.

Lora’s memories of her Mum’s final weeks and days at the hospice are very special to her. “During her last two weeks Mum was virtually in a coma and I stayed at her bedside the whole time, sleeping in a chair by her side so she wasn’t alone. Being in the hospice means that, as a daughter, I could really feel part of Mum’s care and spend precious time with her. She was even able to tell me exactly what she wanted for her funeral. On the day she died I helped wash her and dress her in her favourite nightie with pink teddy bears, I painted her nails and sprayed on her signature perfume. She has always taken great pride in her appearance so it was important I was able to do this for her.”

“Each patient and their family is treated with such personal attention. They prepare the patient’s room so beautifully with fresh flowers and it’s so peaceful. You can spend as much time as you want to with your loved one and you’re not rushed at all.”

Lora’s children were given memory boxes by Family Worker, Claire Mould. Lora herself has kept a lock of her Mum’s hair which is her most cherished possession. Her children also wrote letters to Jenny and Lora’s eldest daughter, Josie who was 11 at the time, wrote a song for her Nanny Box which she was able to play for her before she died.