When it became clear that Gill needed end-of-life care, she was referred to St Michael's by her consultant in palliative care. We visited the hospice and were very impressed with the facilities and the general ambience. However, we were even more taken with St Michael's alternative 'hospice at home' arrangement, and we decided to ask to be allowed to take advantage of this innovation. Within a very short space of time, Gill's bedroom was converted into a hospice-like room, and we had access to a 24/7 helpline to call for immediate nursing and medical assistance when needed. This arrangement enabled Gill to receive end-of-life care in the tranquility and familiar surroundings of her own home, which, without the support of the hospice, would not have been possible to achieve.