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.

Always and forever in my heart ❤️

Christmas was Hannah's favourite time x

Uncle David, who dressed as Santa for all the children when I was little. One of my earliest childhood memories. Xx

Lots of happy memories sadly missed

Miss you every day Mum.
Christmas was your favourite time of year, because it brought your family together who meant everything to you.
Happy Christmas Mum, love you lots xxx

The most amazing person ever an extra special mum grandma and matma. Will be missed always. Dedicated her life to family and also to teaching.

My wonderful Uncle Lew. Not a day goes by I don't miss his voice, wish he could tell me a joke, wish we could have a cuppa or a Sunday night telephone call. He truly was one of my favourites and I know I was his. Miss him dearly x

Your love of Christmas always shone so brightly. You spent many, many hours volunteering as Father Christmas for various local charities. Such care and attention for every single child you saw. Making sure that you kept the magic alive for them ❤️ we miss you dad, always, every day, but particularly at Christmas

Strength not measured just in years, but seen in kindness measured forever.

Missing my family and dear friends every day and especially at Christmas time.

We think off you so much ,and miss your voice and guidance, we love you very much love you children & grandchildren shine over us pops xx

Dad, another Christmas and miss you as much as the others, shine bright up there.
Love you always Nikki xx

The memory of your beautiful smile my darling will light up my Christmas.

The best dad anyone could wish yo have.
Lots of love always and forever ❤️

For my wonderful dad and Vivi and Alastair's much-loved Grandpa. Christmas won't be the same without you. You are always in our hearts. We love you so much, Jenna, Liam, Vivi and Alastair x

Donation made by Mums friends and fellow knitters from the sale of wool

In loving memory of Linda. Remembered by all those who knew her and loved her.
A shining light in all our memories that will never dim.

Missing you mum.

Remembering my wonderful Dad and Mum. Lost Dad with lung cancer in 2007 and Mum with dementia in 2017 xxx

We miss you so much Dad and life just isn’t the same without you in it! We think about you with love every day xxx

My Dad passed away on New Year’s Day 2020 & this will be our first Christmas without him. We all miss you & think of you every day. Happy Christmas Dad, Love from us all.

We will remember you always!