Terry’s Story – Family Support and Bereavement Service

My wife Pat was sadly diagnosed with stage 4 bowel cancer. Initially I was looking for help for Pat, our Macmillan Nurse suggested St Mary’s Hospice Family Support team may be able to help.

After a home visit from the Family Support Team it became apparent that all our family could access help from the team.

Although Pat didn’t access the Family Support Service she insisted that I, our daughters and grandchildren seek help. The support we initially accessed was on a one to one basis, this meant that we could all discuss all sorts of issues regarding Pat’s illness. These meetings gave us all strength and confidence to give Pat the best care we could.

Just talking to someone who understood at our feelings was pure relief at times. We all came away from our meetings refreshed and at times relieved.

I would say to anyone thinking of accessing the service do not hesitate in seeking help.

All St Mary’s staff are professional, caring, ‘real’ people. They care about our wellbeing. You may feel you are strong enough to cope with major life problems, but there will be a time when you think “I just cannot cope”. The Family Support team are there to get you through those times. Do not be too proud to ask for help.