I have the immense privilege of being part of the team at Lindsey Lodge Hospice in Scunthorpe. On a daily basis, I see the difference that every single member of staff, volunteers and supporters help make to the lives of those we care for in North Lincolnshire. It's a very special place within our community.

As I hurtle towards half a century at the end of this year, I can't help but think about the two very special people who are to blame for me strapping myself to the outside of a bi-plane to help mark my 50th Birthday. My Dad, John Currie, and my best friend, Wendy Miller. (I really am not a very good flyer and that's whilst being on the inside of a plane!)

I can't even begin to imagine what it must be like to be told you have a life-limiting illness. What I do know is the courage and good grace in which I witnessed both of these people face that very thing.

My Dad was cared for beautifully at home by my wonderful Mum and big Sister with support from the district nurses. He was 54 and he wanted to die at home. I asked him one night if he was angry about dying, as I was at the unfairness, and he simply said 'why should I be angry? I'm dying in luxury'. He did with the support of everyone helping to make that happen. He wanted to be pain free at the end and he was.

A death of a parent is very hard, but it's the way of the world and how things are meant to be. What I didn't expect was to lose my best friend at the age of 47. Again, Wendy's outlook was that it was better to be happening to her than to anyone else. I consider myself incredibly fortunate to have loved both of these people and had them in my life.

They don't know just how much they have influenced me and I will be forever grateful to them. That's why I do what I do on a daily basis.

Quality of life matters. Dying matters. 'Getting it right' for the individual matters. Thank you for any contribution you are able to give in support of the life enhancing work of Lindsey Lodge Hospice. It is greatly appreciated.

Anne x

(Biggles Currie)