Family cherish special memory 

In a special moment, mum Ann Goodfellow attended her daughter’s wedding blessing, with loved ones, in our hospice gardens.

Thanks to the help of our inpatient staff, Ann saw her younger daughter, Hannah, and partner Joe exchange their wedding vows.

She had hoped to attend Hannah’s wedding in Cornwall. Instead, due to her illness, the date was changed and the wedding moved nearer home.

Unfortunately, Ann became more unwell and was transferred to the hospice for end of life care. After a consultation with our care specialists, it was clear that Ann was too poorly to attend.

Compassionate care  

Knowing this, our caring staff quickly offered to organise a special ceremony at the hospice.

Soon after, with help from our team, our volunteer chaplain stepped in and the service was ready without delay.

Dr Jess, who helped to care for Ann, said: “It was a privilege to be able to support Ann and her family at such an important time and help them create special memories.”

“The nursing staff helped Ann to go into the garden for the ceremony. Everything took place outside in the sunshine – it looked beautiful.

“Supporting families and helping them make the most of meaningful moments together is at the heart of what we do.”

Surrounded by family

Ann was able to celebrate Hannah’s wedding surrounded by family members, including husband Paul, elder daughter Kathryn, son James, and his expectant wife Sylvia.

She was so appreciative of the care of our team and especially chaplain David Clark that she asked him to lead her funeral.

Kathryn said: “We are all so grateful to the amazing staff for organising the blessing, which meant we could share such a cherished and special moment with Mum.

“It was wonderful that we were able to do the blessing together. It meant a lot to all of us. All of the staff went out of their way to organise it in one day and put Hannah, Joe and Mum at ease.” 

Reverend David Clark, the hospice’s volunteer chaplain, said: “During the ceremony the rings were blessed. Ann had embroidered a charming cushion for the wedding rings to sit on. The day was beautiful, and the ceremony was deeply meaningful. Ann really appreciated having her family around her. It was a very heartwarming moment.

“I also felt most privileged to be asked to lead Ann’s funeral and support the family at such a crucial time.”