Jade’s story

My Daddy was diagnosed with cancer in May 2023. Before his diagnosis he had complained about back pain and had been receiving physio. After the back pain worsened his physio advised he visited A&E. At the Hospital a CT scan showed caecum and liver cancer. In the following MRI scan they discovered bowel, lung and spine cancer. We were absolutely devastated by the news and in utter shock. I couldn’t believe that back pain was the only symptom when he had been living with numerous cancers. He initially received radiotherapy and then hoped to receive chemotherapy as the next form of treatment. It felt like a nightmare when we got the news Dad’s cancer was terminal. His health quickly deteriorated and he was told by Worcester Hospital where he lived that he would be too weak to receive chemotherapy. Dad was so brave throughout but I could tell he was absolutely crushed by this news. It felt like blow after blow to us all.

As soon as I found out Dad was poorly I knew that I wanted to care for him at our home with my husband Rob. He was an incredibly proud and independent man so this took some persuading. I knew it would be hard to care for him but I completely underestimated how hard. I thought that remembering all the tablets would be a challenge but hadn’t anticipated the battle with Dad to take his tablets. I remember the first night Dad stayed, he was sick all through the night. I didn’t realise how fragile he would be to touch or move. I was completely overwhelmed and also had my two year old son to look after. I just wanted Dad to have the best care possible. As a family we all pitched in to help Dad but none of us were prepared or trained for his requirements.

I had always heard amazing things about St Gemma’s Hospice and their work so reached out to them when Dad moved in with us. From the moment the St Gemma’s team came round I felt a sense of relief. They treated Dad with such kindness and made us both feel at ease. The staff at St Gemma’s quickly improved his pain relief and made him as comfortable as possible. I really appreciated how they would talk through every decision with me.

Dad passed away peacefully in July at our home surrounded by his close family. It was so important that we could be together at home and St Gemma’s made this possible. The compassion they showed our family during our darkest time will never be forgotten. I can’t thank them enough for everything they have done for us all. Special thanks to Kathy and Eileen for their palliative care and emotional support. Also a massive thank you to Rob for his continued care and support with my grief. We will be eternally grateful to you all.

Dad was a highly intelligent man who loved nature and travelling. He always treated others with kindness. It was how he lived that shaped me and I am so proud that he was my Dad. His family and friends loved him so much. He will live forever in our hearts and is missed every day.

I will continue to fundraise for St Gemma’s Hospice in memory of my Dad Dennis and all that they have done for us.