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Christmas for someone staying at the Hospice is experienced in their own way.
People have their own ideas about what it means to them and how their symptoms and prognosis are making them feel, so we approach this time of year sensitively. We decorate the inpatient unit beautifully for everyone to enjoy and there is a feeling of togetherness around the Hospice.
A young mum called Danielle was at the Hospice last October and she told us how she loved spending every moment of Christmas with her two children. As Danielle became more unwell and it became clear she had limited time, we asked her if she would like to bring Christmas forward so she could enjoy her favourite day with her boys, an idea she absolutely loved.
Everyone at the Hospice wanted to do something for Danielle’s Christmas. Some of the nursing team decorated the lounge after their shifts finished, and I've never seen it look so beautiful. There were stockings with the children's names on, fairy lights wrapped around the old wooden beams, presents under the tree and sparkles everywhere. It was cosy and homely, a home from home.
On the big day, the lounge was filled with love and laugher as Danielle and her whole family came together, all dressed in matching festive pyjamas. They opened presents, played games and listened to music as they ate a homemade feast and pulled crackers.
Danielle had fallen in love with one of our favourite visiting therapy animals, Owen the Shetland pony, and we arranged for him to pop in to see her again; he arrived in the lounge wearing a Rudolph red nose and antlers. The day was just perfect, full of warmth and precious memories for the children for life.
We can bring comfort, dignity, joy and precious moments to patients and families, thanks to your kind continued support.
Story and images may not be published elsewhere without express permission from St Helena Hospice.
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