Jean Colley was at the hospice in Apley for two years as a day unit patient and formed friendships with those who cared for her. The doctors, nurses, treatments and massages all helped her to cope with her very difficult situation. Jean was able to keep a positive outlook throughout her illness because of the relationships she formed with hospice staff and the attentive care she received, especially from the nurses.

Jean wanted to leave something in her will for the hospice in Apley, as it was there she met her loving hospice family. She talked to the nurses and said she would like to buy whatever they chose for the hospice, something they thought would help them to continue providing excellent care for their patients.

The hospice nurses chose a Dinamap to be Jean’s generous gift. In early April Jean’s two daughters, Helen James and Julie Gough, along with their families, came to the hospice to see the equipment and to talk to the nurses and doctors who had cared for Jean. Everyone made them feel very welcome and talked to them about Jean and the warmth she had brought to the hospice

Jean had an incredibly positive experience at the hospice, enjoying her massages, her crafts and her conversations with the nurses, the chefs and the doctors. Her love of laughter and her sense of humour have left a lasting impression on all those who knew her. The nurses have nicknamed the Dinamap Jeanie, in memory of Jean. Jean’s daughter Helen is positive this thoughtful gesture would have made Jean smile.

Jean was a loving and fun woman, who laughed freely and enjoyed bright and vibrant colours. Helen is incredibly proud that something her mum contributed to the hospice will make a difference to the people who need the same help Jean did, and hopes it will contribute for many years to come.  Jean felt that contributing equipment would be a more personal way of giving back to the hospice and her daughter Helen feels “I feel and hope that the memory of my mum will be remembered through her legacy.”

A collection for Severn Hospice was also held at Jean’s funeral, where friends and family helped to contribute to the lovely gift Jean left.