Ann’s dad George became ill after a tumour was found on his pancreas. After being given days to live, George was cared for at St Giles for around three weeks.
Ann said: “I was able to stay with Dad each night for 10 days, allowing me to be by my dad’s side at the end of his life.
“The team at St Giles – from the consultants to the cleaners – gave exemplary care to both me and Dad, enabling him to have a peaceful end of life. I remember one of the healthcare assistants ensuring that I looked after myself, even encouraging me to take a moment to eat. Another sat with Dad, holding his hand when he felt worried and alone, something I deeply appreciated.
“On the day before Dad died, nurses helped take him outside in his bed so he could feel the sun on his face one last time – fitting for a man who was always a sunseeker.
“I had never been to a hospice before and was amazed by St Giles. The time spent with Dad at the end of his life was so important to me. Everyone was so lovely, and St Giles is such a great place.”
Funds raised from Celebrate Lives Lived will help ensure St Giles can continue to deliver vital care to patients and their loved ones.
Ann continued: “The care my dad received was exemplary – there was always someone there to help, and he was never in pain. Experiencing that care with my dad, I want others to have the same dignity and comfort at the end of their lives, so we must support St Giles to ensure that can happen.”
