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On the 1st May 2015 my baby sister, Polly, phoned with tragic, scarey news that the doctors had told her she was dying. I was actually on my way to the hospital. This was unbelievable. Polly, Stew (her loving husband) and I listened carefully as the doctors reconfirmed their diagnosis of advanced pancreatic cancer. Again unbelievable for a beautiful, 43 year old, apparently fit business woman who had recently experienced only severe abdominal pain. She left the hospital with a bag of pain killers and instructions. 

Then the roller coaster began. Her home was filled with stunned family and friends. They provided overwhelmingly support as Polly, Stew and Lucy (their beautiful 12 year old daughter) grew in awareness of the reality of their situation. As a professor of nursing I have witnessed many dreadful situations, but Polly's daily deterioration was beyond much of what I had experienced. Polly's battle was short, and ended on 29th June 2015. She is sadly missed by her family and friends. The presence of over 400 people in the Church to say farewell to her is testament to the impact that she made on a whole community. She was a beautiful butterfly that brought love to the world. 

During those short painful weeks Marie Curie and Freeman Hospital staff provided astonishing care, support and practical advice to Polly and Stewart, a family and wide group of friends who were and continue to be in shock. 

I miss you Polly. I want to do something to help others who are experiencing a tragedy similar to our situation.

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