My dad passed away after a relatively short illness in February 2020. 

In some ways I feel the grieving hasn't started yet but I think that's because we were lucky. 

Dad attended the 'Macmillan Caring Locally' Hospice in Christchurch, firstly as a day patient (chatting, painting, drinking from the jolly trolley!) then as an admission (still chatting and drinking from the jolly trolley!). 

We witnessed up close the incredible care and compassion these angels give to those at the end of their lives and those who are staying behind. I truly remember the whole experience as largely positive and I know my Mum, my sisters, their husbands, Dad's grandsons, my wife and daughters and all of my Dad's friends felt the same. 

The running costs of these hospices is huge, it isn't all NHS funded and they are planning on building a new centre which will cost several million. Thanks for reading this, if you can make a small donation then I know Macmillan Caring Locally and all who benefit from their love and care will be incredibly grateful.