Richard’s story
written by Jayne, his wife
Richard's wife, Jayne, shares their story with St. Michael's Hospice.
We both loved Christmas, but last year at home we didn’t even put the tree up. Coming to the Hospice they took away our worries and made it feel like our traditional Christmas again.
Jayne, Richard's wife
Richard had a wonderful sense of humour, and we clicked straight away when we met over 10 years ago.
In October 2023, Richard was diagnosed with terminal oesophageal cancer. After a year for caring for him at home, it became totally overwhelming.
Just before Christmas 2024, Richard was admitted to St. Michael’s Hospice – and everything changed. We both loved Christmas, but last year at home we didn’t even put the tree up. Coming to the Hospice they took away our worries and made it feel like our traditional Christmas again.
The Hospice was warm, calm, and festive, with fairy lights, homemade cakes, and Christmas dinner ready. It felt like being at home, but with all the pressure taken off. The press of the button, and they were there. It made a huge difference.
Our family could visit anytime, and with their support, Richard was even able to go out to his families home for a few hours on Christmas Day and Boxing Day. I’ll never forget our two-year-old granddaughter, Molly, unwrapping presents from the staff.
Richard died on New Year’s Eve. This will be our first Christmas without him, but I’ll always be grateful for the memories the Hospice helped us make. Whenever I come back to the Hospice, I feel like Richard is still around.
Please support the Last Christmas Appeal. Your gift helps families like mine share a last Christmas together.