On 18th February, Mum was transferred from West Suffolk Hospital in Bury St Edmunds, to the Royal Star & Garter Home in Surbiton, where she was nursed and cared for until she died peacefully in the early evening of 27th March. I was holding one hand, Robert her other. Jane, James and Philip arrived not long afterwards, as did Richard.

The staff at Royal Star & Garter helped to make Mum's time with them as pampered and comfortable as possible, with their expert care and attention. She enjoyed the St Patrick's Day concert and other events there.

As many of you know, The Royal Star & Garter is a care home for disabled ex-service people and their dependants. It has an 'Outstanding' rating. Mum qualified as an RAF widow - thank you again Dad. In a short space of time, the staff there grew close to Mum. They described her as stylish, witty, and with a wonderful smile "all the better for seeing you, my dear". They loved the story that her room told about her. They were visibly shocked that she went so quickly. But as a friend has said 'what an elegant way to go'. 

We would like to help the Royal Star & Garter Homes offer the same care for more people.