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.

Thinking of you at this special time of year. Our second year without you.
I miss you very much.
Happy heavenly Christmas
Love from
Toke

Lyn and I didn't meet until our mid-40s and it turned out we had less than 8 years together, 4 of which were in the shadow of cancer until she passed away in November 2016. But in those 8 years she made me the happiest man in the world. We were married in 2011, just over a year before her diagnosis after which we still made the most of the time we had remaining. She never complained, never sought pity and a lot of people didn't even realise her situation until the last months when she had to give up work. The St Barnabus Hospice At Home team were the greatest source of help and support in that final period, and the day centre were too before and, for me, after that. I'll never be able to thank them enough.

Always Remembered
Love Diane, Sue and Mandy

Missing you everyday mum especially this time of year you loved we will never forget you xxxx

I still miss you so much my dear John, even though it’s several years since I lost you.

Never gave up fighting.All ways in my heart ❤️

Mum loved Christmas. It was all about family. She was well known for buying ‘quirky’ gifts

Wonderful memories of great times spent together. Adrenalin-fuelled planning, 'who' was coming and 'when'? Last minute shopping a certainty! The fraught stages of prep forgotten as the day filled with love, laughter, and good cheer. Remembered now with great love as that Christmas Table shrinks, albeit gradually.

Two years ago I said goodbye to you, but wherever I go, whatever I do, memories keep me near to you. Denis you are forever in my heart. Love you always.
Kath
XxX

Remembering mum and dad this Christmas

Sarah,

I know christmas was your favourite time of year. It doesn’t get any easier without you here, we miss you so much. I wish you were still here with us but I’m glad you’re no longer in pain. Keep shining bright.

Love you always,
Shannon

Greatly missed and always in our thoughts.

You are often in my thoughts and always in my heart. I miss you so much. Love you Dad. Merry Christmas x

Always with me dad, love you and miss you loads xxx

In memory of Steve who passed away 06/08/2024 at Manorlands Hospice in Oxenhope

Remembering my lovely Mum (aka Nanny Harry) who always made Christmas so special and fondly remembering our happy times together. Forever in our hearts. X

A memory of Malc's smile and sense of humour. They never left him right to the end, such a brave man.