Hello all family and friends,

Well, here I am again embarking on my fourth walk to raise money for Oakhaven Hospice, in memory of my very best friend - husband Ken.

This is just one way I feel able, as pay-back, for the care both Ken and I received during the last seven months of Ken’s life. I am forever grateful to my two sons, the surgeons, doctors, nurses, paramedics, live-in carers, Oakhaven carers, family and friends who supported us throughout. With everyone’s help I was able to care for Ken at home and be by his side night and day during those last months.

With specialist transport, I accompanied Ken twice to The Coates Centre at Oakhaven. These last two trips gave Ken a slow ride, gazing at his beloved countryside. During those two short visits I was overwhelmed with the warm welcome we both received.

The Coates Centre at Oakhaven has been a lifeline to me. At a much later date I plucked up the courage to walk through those doors again. Through the ongoing support I received with counselling, well run varied courses and endless cups of tea etc. lead me to taking part in my first Oakhaven walk four years ago. Since then I have raised over £500 through walking and other activities. The Coates Centre, a calming and friendly environment, with a team of extraordinary volunteers, steered me gently back into a life I never thought possible.

Without exception, everyone of my fabulous new friends, have indirectly stemmed from those early visits. Through the confidence gained at Oakhaven during those first two years, I have felt able to take up new hobbies - playing music with a fab group of like-minded people and recently joining Milford Bowling Club where I have been made most welcome and met such a supportive bunch of lovely folk.

If anyone reading this would like me to accompany them to visit The Coates Centre, please get in touch with me.

A big “Thank You” to all at The Coates Centre, for making the above possible and who continue to support the bereaved within the community.

Lymington and the surrounding area is blessed having Oakhaven on the doorstep.

Thank you for your support. I will continue to raise money for this wonderful cause in any which way I can.

With much love

Jean x

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Oakhaven Hospice provides specialist palliative care and support to those facing life-limiting illness and their loved ones in both a home and hospice setting.

Our team of specialist Oakhaven nurses, doctors, counsellors and physiotherapists ease physical symptoms and offer psychological, spiritual and social support.

Our care is tailored to suit the needs of each individual and, with a blend of expertise and compassion, the team offers support for people when they need it most.