When Clare was in her final weeks and needed someone to be with her 24/7, our family and friends were hugely supportive. Being there all day and night to help with her care, talk with her and sometimes just to be there.

But that level of effort is very hard to sustain for long, so the relief provided by Marie Curie was hugely welcome. They were able to come in and care for Clare overnight to give us all a rest and allow me to sleep soundly knowing that there was someone skilled and experienced with Clare all night.

This allowed Clare to have her wish of being at home surrounded by family and friends in her final days.

And there was a Marie Curie nurse with me in the early hours when Clare died, who was able to reassure me about what was happening and knew what to do afterwards.

Marie Curie is not one of the charities I had given a lot of thought to before - but when someone needs them, they really need them. 

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.