When George Woodcock’s health began to decline, his family were determined to honour his wish to remain at home. With support from Dr Kershaw’s Hospice at Home Team, George was able to spend his final days surrounded by his loved ones in the comfort of familiar surroundings.
“We knew the A Team had arrived”
Having previously worked as part of Dr Kershaw’s Caring Hands Team, Marie had experienced the difference hospice care makes. But when her own father, George, became seriously ill and later passed away at home on 15 February 2023 at the age of 92, she experienced first-hand the comfort, reassurance and compassion that the team provide to local families every day…
“Mum and Dad were married for 63 years and shared a wonderful life together. They received Papal blessings for both their Golden and Diamond wedding anniversaries and were completely devoted to one another.
When Mum died in 2019, Dad never really got over losing her. He visited her grave every day, sometimes three times a day, and became a familiar face in the cemetery. In truth, he was a familiar face everywhere. Whether he was at the local market, Tesco or simply out and about, somebody would always stop to speak to him. Dad loved a chat, had a story for every occasion and was known for his great sense of humour.
Family meant everything to him. Between his six children, nine grandchildren and six great-grandchildren, there was always somebody to visit, celebrate with or make laugh.
Dad worked hard throughout his life and, even after retirement, couldn’t sit still for long. He took a job driving a minibus for children with special educational needs, something he thoroughly enjoyed. He loved talking to the children, teaching them new things and helping others whenever he could.
He was also a keen darts player and won many trophies over the years, playing proudly for Springhead Liberal Club.
Throughout Dad’s illness we met lots of different professionals, but when Hospice at Home arrived, we knew the A Team had arrived. I knew we were in safe hands.
As he got older, Dad began experiencing memory problems and in September 2022 he was diagnosed with vascular dementia. Over time his health deteriorated, and he suffered a number of falls, resulting in several hospital admissions.
On New Year’s Day 2023, I found Dad on the bathroom floor after he had fallen and been there for several hours. He was admitted to hospital before eventually returning home ten days later. Although we wanted to care for him ourselves, we knew we needed additional support to make that possible.
Dad had no appetite; he was drinking very little and spending much of his time in a semi-conscious state. As his condition deteriorated, the palliative care team became involved and then Dr Kershaw’s Hospice at Home Team.
I used to work for the Hospice’s Caring Hands Team myself, so I already knew the high standard of care they provided. But being on the receiving end of that care was something completely different.
When Hospice at Home became involved, I felt an immediate sense of relief. I knew how well trained the team were, how dedicated they were to patients and families, and the compassion they brought to every visit.
Throughout Dad’s illness we met lots of different professionals, but when Hospice at Home arrived, we knew the A Team had arrived. I knew we were in safe hands. The team were incredibly knowledgeable and experienced, but they never came across as patronising or controlling. Everything they did came from a place of kindness and genuine care for Dad and for us as a family.
They made it clear that we could call at any time if we had concerns or simply needed somebody to talk things through with. Knowing they were there was such a comfort. Every member of the team was compassionate, patient and understanding. They treated Dad with dignity and respect at all times and helped us fulfil his wish of remaining at home.
The support wasn’t just for Dad. The team looked after all of us too. During what was an incredibly emotional and uncertain time, they were always there with advice, reassurance and a listening ear whenever we needed it.
As a family, we took turns staying overnight with Dad. On the evening before he died, it was my turn, and my sister Clare decided to stay too. The following morning, after the carers had visited, they gently explained that Dad had changed.
Clare and I sat beside him, holding his hands, and shortly afterwards he passed away peacefully at home.
We called Hospice at Home and they came to verify Dad’s death and carry out his last offices. I was able to help with Dad’s last offices, which became the final thing I could do for him. Without the support and guidance of the Hospice at Home Team, I don’t think I would have felt able to do that.
We were so lucky to have him as our dad, and I will always be proud of him.”
A lasting impact
The care George and his family received during his final weeks has left a lasting impact on Marie and her wider family.
Marie has supported Dr Kershaw’s Hospice in a number of ways over the years, including fundraising, making donations and being a lottery member. Experiencing the Hospice’s care as both a former member of staff and the daughter of a patient gave her an even deeper appreciation of the difference the charity makes to local families.
Knowing that George was able to remain at home, surrounded by his loved ones and cared for by a team she trusted completely, brought comfort during an incredibly difficult time.
Reflecting on the support they received, Marie said: “I can’t praise the team enough for all their help, support and expertise. From the moment they became involved, I felt comforted and relieved. Dad wanted to be at home and your lovely ladies helped us carry out his wishes. You should all be very proud.”
🩷 Because every moment matters 🩷
I was able to help with Dad’s last offices, which became the final thing I could do for him. Without the support and guidance of the Hospice at Home Team, I don’t think I would have felt able to do that.