Claire’s Story

Every Moment Matters

Hospice care isn’t something that you often think about, but you would hope that the care would be accessible if you or a loved one needed it. Claire Betts bravely shares her story with the Cransley Hospice Trust about the fond memories of her beloved dad.

"It was the day after my birthday when Dad collapsed. He had gone into the hospital for some tests, and they discovered that he had terminal lung cancer."

"Dad was a very proud man. He was a wonderful person who loved his family so much." Claire expressed how difficult it was for her dad to talk openly about what he himself was trying to come to terms with. He did not want to burden the family with any worries, knowing how concerned everyone was.

"When Dad was admitted to Cransley Hospice, they helped him not just physically but also emotionally." Claire explained how her dad felt incredibly supported by the staff, especially appreciating one of the nurses, Theresa. He was able to speak to her openly about his diagnosis, ask questions, and seek reassurance about anything troubling him.

“Theresa, the specialist palliative care nurse, would sit and talk to him – she had a special way of saying things and helped him come to terms with it himself. She helped mum, dad and the wider family so much. I can’t put into words the difference that they made.

"We have very special memories of the evening when Dad died, which sounds strange. But he was so peaceful, and we were all there visiting him." There are many misconceptions when a loved one is admitted to a hospice, but Claire’s story about her dad brings reassurance to other families that individualised care is an invaluable service, allowing families to make special memories and alleviate the weight of worrying about their loved ones.

“He was only there the night. We were all there to say goodbye and he just peacefully went to sleep surrounded by the love of his family, “it was beautiful the way he tucked his blanket under his chin and just went to sleep. There was no pain.

"It brings us comfort knowing that he died peacefully."