Terrence’s story

I met my husband, Terrence, over 22 years ago at university. Terrence was a friend to everyone, and a brilliant academic. In 2013, just three years after we married, he was diagnosed with a brain tumour and given 8 years to live. It was a huge shock, but we were determined to live life to the fullest and had two wonderful children. 

By 2022, Terrence’s health declined rapidly, and he developed dementia. When I didn’t know where to turn, the Hospice welcomed us with such warmth and care. The support was incredible, from helping us adapt our home to providing specialist equipment to make him as independent as possible. In 2024, the weeks before Christmas, Terrence needed more care, so came to the Hospice.

From the moment we arrived, it felt like a home away from home. We played Christmas music, decorated the room, and continued our regular Pizza and Film Fridays. Terrence was treated with dignity and love, not just as a patient, but as a person.

Most importantly, our family could stay with him 24/7. I dread to think what it would have been like if my six-year-old daughter could not have visited him in those final days. It was so important for her to be there, to make the most of every moment she had left with her Daddy. The Hospice made that possible for us.

Please support the Last Christmas Appeal. Your gift helps families like mine share a last Christmas together.