Maureen’s anniversary story
Maureen Howard, a mother of three from Leegomery, had a personal message to the local community on the first anniversary of the opening of the in-patient unit in Telford.
I have been staying at the Severn Hospice for the past four weeks and I can only describe the experience as incredible. When I was first admitted to the Hospice I thought it was a place to end my days, but it is a place that has renewed me. My first impression was that I was too old for such a modern place, but the team are so loving it feels like a home away from home.
My stay here has been a spiritual one too, I’m not one to spout religion, but Harry and Tim the chaplains have been wonderful, they have helped me to sleep free of bad dreams. The Hospice has made me feel so close to nature too, it is such a blessing that I am here. They have given me my femininity back. I had my hair done for the first time how I wanted it and I feel like a million pounds.
I am a nightwalker, and the nurses have all the time in the world to chat to you and make tea and toast. When my daughter and granddaughter visit me, they come in, make a pot of tea, chat to the staff and make themselves at home. My granddaughter said she hadn’t seen me looking so content and full of life before.
The team also provide me with physical and emotional security. Even when I go home, I know they will always be here. I’m excited to come back and say thank you to them all.
When people give to the Hospice, it is hard to convey the difference it makes. I want people to know the intensity of what happens here, the difference they make and the living joy there is at the Hospice. I believe that the concrete laid as the foundations of the Hospice was made with genuine love from all those that have raised the money to make it a reality. Today nothing scares me, not even cancer, and I want to thank everyone for all the generous love I have here at the Hospice.
