At St. Helena Hospice in Colchester, every day is a new and unique experience for the dedicated staff. As part of the Hospice Care Week celebration, the hospice is opening its doors to share the stories of the incredible work being done behind the scenes.
During last year alone, the hospice provided care for over 4,000 individuals facing incurable illnesses and bereavement. Katy Billimore, a nurse at the hospice, shared her experience of providing care at home for patients in need. She highlighted the urgency of some situations, where they need to act quickly to ensure patients are comfortable and receive the necessary medication.
Dr. Katherine Oakley, a palliative care doctor at St. Helena Hospice for fourteen years, emphasized the importance of holistic care for patients in their last year of life. She expressed her passion for making a difference in people’s lives and praised the collaborative effort of the team in providing quality care.
Matron Niamh Eve, who has been at the hospice for 11 years, shared heartwarming stories of fulfilling patients’ wishes, such as organizing a special steak dinner for a patient and his wife before his passing. She also recalled the joy brought to patients and families when Sam the donkey visited the hospice, highlighting the importance of bringing moments of happiness during difficult times.
The dedication and compassion of the staff at St. Helena Hospice shine through in their commitment to providing personalized and meaningful care to each individual under their care. Hospice Care Week serves as a reminder of the incredible work being done in hospices across the UK and the impact it has on patients, families, and staff members alike.