St Barnabas has been part of my life since 1998. Over the years, I’ve seen the hospice grow and adapt. But one thing that has remained constant is the incredible care. My time working alongside the hospice – first as an NHS commissioner for hospice services, then as Chair of Trustees, and now as Honorary Lifetime President – has shown me just how vital that care is.
Patients and families always say the same thing – it feels different at the hospice. It’s a place where everyone is seen for who they are, not just as a patient but as a person, right to the end. I remember once being asked by the care team if I had a compass, which I did. They were trying to find Mecca for a patient of Muslim faith, so they could face their bed in its direction. It was a simple thing, but it brought the person immense comfort and peace.
I’m always struck by how relaxed and positive patients are when we chat. The team treats everyone like members of their own family, whether at the hospice, in the community, or a patient’s home. The hospice truly adds life to days, and often, days to life.
I’ve known patients who expected to spend their final days in the hospice regain strength and be comfortable enough to return home with loved ones. It’s a testament to the entire team, who combine expert end-of-life care and clinical excellence with genuine compassion.
I take great pride in being part of the hospice and what it achieves. We’re incredibly fortunate to have such dedicated expertise in Lincolnshire. And it’s all down to the support of the community. St Barnabas is only part-funded and therefore relies on fundraising, donations, and gifts in Wills to keep going.
By joining others and leaving a gift in my Will to the hospice, together, we’ll carry St Barnabas forward so it stays part of our community long into the future.
Thank you to Bob, and all our legators. Your legacy will continue through the care you’ll make possible in years to come.
To find out more about leaving A Gift For Generations, please visit: Make a Will with St Barnabas Hospice