Our wonderful Dad, Joseph 'Joe' Downing was diagnosed with an aggressive form of non-Hodgkin lymphoma in January 2018.  Despite  him being aware of the potential health complications associated with the intense treatment needed, he adopted a valiant 'bring it on!' attitude to chemotherapy. Six sessions were planned. He managed 3 - but each cycle hammered his (already weak) heart and other organs. Sadly, Dad passed away on 5th May 2018 in hospital, surrounded by his family. 

The staff at the chemo unit at University Hospital of North Durham were incredible. From the moment we received the diagnosis and throughout his treatment period they gave our Dad the best possible care and showed him genuine kindness, compassion, empathy and utmost respect at all times - for which we are eternally grateful.  His appreciation of the nursing profession was extremely high. "Angels. Every single one of them", he'd regularly say. This was true of all nurses that had cared for him but he was especially fond of those in the chemo unit. 

Dad's funeral will take place at 11.45am on Tuesday, 29th May at Mountsett Crematorium in Dipton, near Stanley, County Durham. All welcome - please join us to celebrate Dad's life and share cherished memories. Family flowers only but for those kindly asking, we'd be grateful for donations to the Chemore fundraising appeal (to improve cancer treatment facilities at the hospital) in his memory, in lieu of floral tributes. 

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