David’s Story

“In June, I was very unwell and ended up in hospital being told I was going to die. My family was preparing for the worst. I’d just had more chemo when I was told I had two days to live. I have three cats, and one of them, Reg, sat with me and held my hand for days prior to my hospital admission. Thinking it was the end, I was then admitted to St Gemma’s – who turned things around in ways no one had predicted.

In late June and early July 2025 I came to the hospice for two weeks. I was hallucinating, heavily medicated and really poorly, but the hospice was incredible. It didn’t feel clinical at all, more like a hotel experience, and I was genuinely happy to be there. I had heard of St Gemma’s before but hadn’t paid much attention to what they did. Once I was there, they simply helped me feel better every single day. The food was amazing – I still remember the fish.

Paul, the CNS, talked with me and I honestly feel he saved my life, like a guardian angel. My GP had even written a letter saying there was no hope, but St Gemma’s gave me hope and my life back. My recovery has been nothing short of miraculous. Once my symptoms were under control, I realised I didn’t need end-of-life care. I’ve now been fully discharged and can get my life back, knowing I can always return if needed. They are always there for me.

I used to work locally and sometimes visited St Gemma’s to do equipment checks, but seeing it from a patient’s perspective changed everything. The team really care, and they deliver information clearly and with real compassion. I can’t say enough good about them.”