If you have not had personal experience of hospice care you may wonder why we need your support.  

Read Kelly Anne's Story

Read Julie's Story

Julie Tointon-Mahandru has written this letter to help people understand how important their support is.

Dear Reader

I don’t think anyone really understands the word hospice until they have firsthand experience, so I want to share with you my experience of Saint Francis Hospice.

Hospice to me is not just a place; it is the staff who are always ready to listen, the volunteers who smile and aren’t afraid to ask how you are feeling, and most of all the feeling of safety you get knowing your loved one is getting the best care possible.

My husband Dee was first admitted as an inpatient to Saint Francis Hospice while I was pregnant.  I feel they took care of both of us and I could relax knowing the staff had things under control and were putting Dee first.  He was treated like a person, not just an illness.  It was this holistic approach which led to a Saint Francis Hospice nurse saving Dee’s life.  The life saving operation that followed her fast response meant that Dee lived to see our daughter Sophia.  I will never forget the way the hospice helped my husband live with dignity right up until he died with his family by his side.

This is why I am writing to you today.  The hospice is a vital local service that needs protecting and this year they need to raise £7.2 million.  Please help and sign up to the new hospice lottery and make sure other families like mine have the support they need when it really matters.  Your £1 a week can make a real difference in your community, so please sign up today!

Sign up by Direct Debit or cheque or card