Miss you more than words can say

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.

So many Christmas memories of the biggest kid of them all. So loved, so missed xxx

In loving memory of my wonderful Dad who passed away last week. Thank you to all at St Barnabas who cared for him, and us over these past few weeks. We are forever grateful.

Lost way too soon and a light will always shine for Adele. A lovely personality and character, missed by those closest to her. This Christmas she will be the star for her darling daughter Isabelle and other family. RIP

Our superhero Gary, the biggest kid at Christmas, so loved and so missed.

To my amazing parents, forever in my heart, you are greatly missed xx

These people meant a huge amount to me and provided light in my life and so I want to ensure they continue to provide light to others

Couldn't have looked after you like we did without the help from St Barnabas hospice staff they were amazing.

Mum and Dad, together again this Christmas. Sending you both lots of love. Jane xxx

My first Christmas without my soulmate and I'm going to miss him so so much , his silliness with our grandchildren, his laugh, his many funny ways but most of all his love, not a day goes by that I don't miss you Barrie and wish you were still by my side, love you always, shine bright to lead the way for me to join you.

Andrew loved Christmas. We think of him daily and will love him always xx

Merry Christmas dad, I love and miss you everyday.

All beautiful and much loved and missed members of our family. Emma, George, Dad, Mum and Brian shine brightly this Christmas and always xxx

Remembering you this Christmas mum. Miss you and love you always.

First Christmas without you pops, we’ll raise a glass or two for you! Love and miss you so very much xxx

Christmas was his favourite time of year; it's not the same without his practical jokes, dancing Christmas hats or wicked sense of humour. Loved dearly x

My wonderful dad, not a day goes by I don’t think of you. Sadly robbed of life age 69. I have such fond memories of you, your dry sense of humour. Your advice and always willing to help me. Harry & Alfie miss you tons as does Colin. 381Dad

Christmas was always your time to bring our family together, I miss you mum

Christmas is the hardest time without you. Always thinking about you everyday. Missing you so much. Love ❤️ you so much with all my heart . Sending you big hugs. Xxxxxxx

Remembering Jules, our beautiful daughter.

Colin and Maureen Nicholson.

Always in our hearts ????