Determined to fight, Steve endured rounds of chemotherapy, numerous tests, and an invasive ‘Ivor Lewis’ surgery that left him in immense pain. I stood by his side, caring for him through every step of this difficult journey. By August 2023, there was hope; Steve was declared cancer-free. 

We seized the moment and travelled to Prague's Christmas markets. However, on the return journey, Steve fell at the airport. This incident led to a new, devastating diagnosis - bone cancer. After undergoing a complex operation to mend a broken hip and pelvis at Addenbrooks Hospital in Cambridge, Steve returned home in February 2024. By then, his health had significantly deteriorated and he was soon referred to St Helena Hospice.

The Hospice became a haven for both of us. I could finally be his wife again, without the heavy burden of being his sole caregiver. Everything changed when we came here for the better as he received the compassionate care that the Hospice provide. I didn’t leave Steve’s side. I sang to him at night, including ‘Amazing Grace’, which he asked me to sing at his funeral.

The staff at St Helena worked tirelessly to make Steve as comfortable as possible. Their care was exceptional, allowing him moments of peace and even simple pleasures like relaxing baths. Despite the hope that he could return home, further scans revealed the cancer had spread to his hip, lungs, liver, and lymph nodes. The dream of being home with his family quickly turned into another battle. I once more took on the role of carer, struggling to manage Steve’s pain and deteriorating condition at home. It became clear that he needed the hospice's support again. 

In his final days, Steve found an unexpected peace and faith, despite being an atheist his whole life. With the support of Tim, the Hospice's spiritual care lead, Steve received his last rites, bringing comfort to both him and me. I didn’t understand it at first, but Tim explained it was about finding peace.

Since Steve's passing, I have continued to honour his memory by raising funds for St Helena Hospice, determined to give back to the institution that provided such exceptional care during our darkest hours. From the Pier to Pier Walk to the Three Peaks Challenge and in the future, a special event featuring one-handed concert pianist Nicholas McCarthy, my fundraising efforts have raised over £3,000.

I would honestly do anything to raise money for St Helena Hospice. There is a critical need for continued donations and support. Without their support and care, both deaths would have been more unbearable.

Amidst my grief for both Steve and my father, who also passed away recently, I find solace in the ongoing counselling provided by the Hospice staff. The thought of St Helena being in crisis is horrendous for all of us. We all need to make sure it carries on by donating and raising money.

My words echo the profound love and determination that characterised our journey - a journey marked by love, loss, and an unwavering commitment to supporting the Hospice that provided us with comfort and dignity in our final moments together.  

This story may not be published elsewhere without express permission from St Helena Hospice.