I became aware of St. Rocco’s Hospice back in 2015, when my mum was diagnosed with Lung Cancer. She would go once a week as an outpatient, to meet other people who had a similar diagnosis. She would come home telling us that she’d had a massage, chatted with the nurses, attended a relaxation class and even had a home cooked meal. She really used to look forward to her visits. As mum’s illness progressed, it became too much for her to go, but she made it quite clear to us as a family, that was where she wanted to end her days.

As a family, we were overwhelmed by the love, support, respect and dignity given, not only to my mum, but also to us as a family. Every member of staff were amazing and always had time to answer any questions we had. They supported us even in mum’s final moments. 

I have now been a volunteer at St. Rocco’s for 3 years. I help at a gardening group, Christmas/Spring fete, Roc On, where school children come and learn about the Hospice and currently take patients visitors for a window visit due to COVID-19. 

As the majority of fund raising events have had to be cancelled due to social distancing measures, I’ve decided to try and raise some much needed funds. I’m aiming to cycle 100 miles during the month of September. Those of you who know me personally, will understand that this isn’t going to be an easy challenge for me. I just feel that after all they have done for our family, I must at least give it a try. So please, if you can and haven’t already, would you consider making a donation on my just giving page or directly to me via a sponsorship form? 

Thank you.