Cheryl's story
Cheryl's Dad, Dave, was diagnosed with an aggressive form of lung cancer, and given just 6 months to live. Over the three years between his diagnosis in March 2023 and when he died in August 2023, beating all the odds, Dave was admitted to Bolton Hospice several times, where he and his family experienced the hospice's specialist care and support.
“My Dad was diagnosed with an aggressive form of Lung Cancer in March 2020 and given just 6 months to live. My Dad lost his battle on Tuesday 8th August 2023, beating all the odds as usual.
My Dad’s journey was one of the most horrendous things I have ever experienced and the most beautiful at the same time.
"He was the strongest person I have ever met and his resilience through his battle was something I’ll never forget. A true warrior."
I could never imagine seeing someone go through the unbearable pain my Dad did but I couldn’t have wished for a better place for him to spend his time when he really needed it.
From my Dad’s diagnosis, the hospice cared for him and made sure he was comfortable and had the best treatment possible that was available to him. Every single person from reception staff, cleaners, volunteers, doctors, maintenance, kitchen, the list is endless, were selfless and compassionate.
We spent over 3 years at the hospice. Sometimes a few days, sometimes a few weeks. By chance, Dad was always admitted to Room 6, which we all called ‘The Hunt Suite’, and that room provided such an outpouring of love and support to my Dad and our whole family, as I’m sure is the case for every family who stay at the hospice.
My Dad didn’t actually pass away in the hospice, but I received the most unreal aftercare and, still feel their support now. I remember receiving a personal call from John, the Bereavement Support Lead, to pass on his condolences, and Dad’s consultant at the hospice also sent my family a sympathy card. Since then, I have been invited to remembrance services, Christmas services and I now volunteer for them, in an incredibly friendly and supportive team.
"The hospice literally go above and beyond and all deserve the recognition and the support."
Upon my Dads first admission he said ‘Chez I’m not going I won’t like it’ and by the end he had a totally different outlook, an extremely positive one. It is a truly remarkable place and they deserve every penny to continue providing outstanding care to patients and their families.”