Hello, I have made a kind donation in memory of my amazing mum, Sarah and would love to share her story.

My mum was cared for by St Barnabas hospice, and stayed in the inpatient unit November-December 2024. At the age of 38 she had been diagnosed with a rare, incurable form of genetic lung cancer. Her short battle with cancer was terrible for us all to see, but the incredible care she received at your hospice meant the world to us.

One of the last memories we ever made with our mum was watching the torchlight procession together outside the unit. The staff assisted in bundling my mum up in blankets and fluffy socks and wheeled her outside to watch the light walk with her family and children. There were tears, smiles, laughter, kind words and hugs from those passing by. I am heartbroken yet honoured to be participating in the walk this year in honour of my mother.

On the 4th of December, the staff set up their conservatory to allow us to spend one last Christmas Day as a family. We laid presents under the beautiful tree, played music and ate a Christmas dinner and cakes brought in by family. My mum was able to watch her young boys and teenage girls open the presents she’d picked out for them earlier in the year, alongside being spoilt herself with lots and lots of bracelets, teddy bears and skincare! The nurses were constantly on hand to assist with pain management and ensuring my mum was comfortable throughout the day.

The staff gave it their all, from washing, brushing and drying mum’s hair to being there for a broken family in the worst moments of their life. They went above and beyond to allow us to make those last memories. The nurses constantly spoke to me and my siblings and ensured we were staying as strong as possible! Mandy stayed with us as my mum took her last breaths and I’m forever grateful that we had her support and guidance, and that she showed my mum complete compassion and gentle care right up until the end.

My mum was treated with respect and dignity until the moment she left your unit. She loved the yummy food, joking around with her nurses and watching the squirrels and birds from her window. It felt like home.

Thank you St Barnabas, we will always keep your charity close to our hearts. You have made a huge difference to our lives.

"and if I listen to my heart, I'll hear your laughter once more" quote from "Goodbye" by Kenny Rogers
To my amazing and much loved mum who passed away on 7 November 2022. You were the strongest woman I have ever known and I feel so proud that I was your daughter.

Julie was a wonderful sister and friend. Always thinking of others. We had some wonderful Christmas together.

Memories of a wonderful friend and colleague.

You will never walk alone, and always remembered love, Jane Mark Andy Lynsey Oliver & Phoebe xx

In memory of my Mum, and Charlie my good friend. Miss and love you both so much.
Always love you…
Jane and Family. xxxxx

Miss you mum, loved you always xx

My hero!!!!

My favourite person, a best friend I miss more and more every day

TREASURED MEMORIES AND MISS YOU ALWAYS
LOVE FROM GRAHAM MARLENE AND FAMILIES

Remembering my Mum and Dad, love and miss you both every day. Thinking of you always ❤️

Mum, miss you more than words can say. Loved and remembered every day xxxx

We have lost our dear Grandad Cavill at 93 this year. But due to COVID restrictions we didn’t get to say our goodbyes. He said many times he was ready to be in heaven with Grandma Cavill which brings our family peace. I’m hoping he will be up there this Christmas making everyone his Christmas cake and having a pint.

To a wonderful dad and grandpra missed and loved each day may you be flying high now merry christmas with lots of love from us all xxxxx

You are always in my thoughts.
I miss you so much. Life is so empty without you.My love always
love
Mary

Love you all very much and miss you. Look after each other on the other side…Jack is on his way. xxxx

You will always be in our hearts and we will raise a glass to you every Christmas Day.

This is the first Christmas without Richard. I want to thank St Barnabas for all the amazing work they do and support they give to families going through similar situations to ours.

3 years since you left us. Christmas is not the same.
Life is not the same.
I am not the same.
I think of you every single day. My mum and best friend. I’ll miss you forever and love you always xxxxx

26.1.1955 – 17.12.2022

We miss you more each day.
Love you loads.

Jen, Abbie and Jess xxx

RIP my darling husband David 1year today Christmas and our lives will never be the same miss you so much until we meet again

In loving memory of John, much loved husband, dad, gdad and great gdad. To have known you was a precious gift. You made every day like Christmas and we loved you dearly xxx

St Bs were amazing looking after both my Dad and best friend through their valiant battles – this time of year they are especially missed and it’s so important we support the hospice and staff continue their vital work. Huge thanks to you all!