“Cali the cockapoo brightened Mum’s day.”

When Isobel was cared by us, visits from her daughter’s beloved cockapoo, Cali, were always a highlight.

Isobel found great comfort in being able to spend time with her family and their pet while receiving care from our charity, she told us:

“Being able to have Cali visit me really brightens my day. She cheers up the other patients and their families, and the staff love her. Having a dog nearby has helped me to feel less stressed during my time here.”

We love to see four-legged friends at the hospice. Pets often have a special way of bringing comfort and calm to our patients and their families. Moments shared with them can ease stress and make tough days a little lighter for everyone.

Compassionate care 

Isobel’s daughter, Alison, remembers how much the hospice’s welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere meant to them all.

“It’s wonderful here, so relaxed, not just for patients but for families too. The care was fantastic. You don’t think you’re in a clinical environment; the staff are wonderful.”

Alison says the difference in her mum after a few days at the hospice was remarkable.

“When Mum wanted something, it was there for her. She couldn’t praise the chef enough. Her appetite really improved once she came in.”

During Isobel’s stay, she was even able to go out on short trips, something that helped her feel like herself again.

Alison told us: “Mum went out to the hairdressers and loved it. We didn’t realise you could go out and come back again during your stay.”

After receiving our expert support, Isobel was able to go home but came back to the hospice a few months later for further care. Alison and her family say they will always be grateful for the compassionate support her mum received in her last weeks.

“It meant everything to us that Mum was treated with such kindness and dignity. We always felt supported too, not just Mum, but all of us.”

Giving back

In memory of Isobel, Alison’s partner Richard, daughter Mollie and Mollie’s girlfriend Liss took part in the Stafford 10K to raise funds for our charity.

Alison explained: “We never thought we’d have to use the hospice, but we have, and we think it’s wonderful.”

Cali still has special place in the family bringing comfort and memories of Isobel, and enjoying her favourite treat, a puppucino (cup of whipped cream just for dogs) at the Swan Hotel in Stafford.