“Jeff was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer in February 2019 and from that time he tackled everything that was thrown at him with positivity.  

He never had a ‘why me’ attitude and throughout his treatment he made sure he lived life fully. He made plans for improvements to our garden even when he wasn’t strong enough to fulfil them himself. 

I am so grateful we were able to enjoy days out and even short breaks between treatments. That year was a precious time for us; something to be treasured for years to come and a privilege that many don’t have the good fortune to enjoy. 

Our experience of St Helena Hospice was nothing but positive. First a home visit to arrange a Blue Badge; the reassurance of a friendly and helpful voice at the end of the phone; and, during the final days of his life, the compassionate care of all the staff at the Hospice, always treating Jeff with dignity and humour. As a family, we were so grateful to have unlimited visiting, which made a difficult time better for us all. 

The Hospice movement is a resource that should be accessible to all those who need it, whatever form that might take. But it requires the support of the local community if it is to continue to do this. I want to do my bit to help make this happen and even without my personal experiences, but perhaps also because of them, I have decided to include a gift in my Will to St Helena.”