The Hospice is our home from home

Grandfather Eddie Kayler, 63, has heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and severe ulcers on his legs. When his health deteriorated rapidly and he became seriously unwell, he was admitted to Saint Francis Hospice. Here Eddie and his wife Mary Anne tell us how the care and support they have received has been life changing. 

Eddie says, "I knew I was getting worse as I used to be able to get around using a walking stick but then I needed to use a frame. I was struggling to breathe and I was in so much pain because of my legs. I also had terrible anxiety and would often have panic attacks.

"We have a lovely garden but I was unable to go outside and I was so down. I felt I had no quality of life as I had to spend my time sitting in a chair.

"One of the doctors from the hospice came to visit and she was so lovely. She told me to come to the ward for a boost - she was a real godsend.

"I was crying when I arrived at the hospice because I was so scared but after a day on the ward that all changed. It was nothing like I imagined and now I don’t want to leave."

Eddie’s condition had a big impact on Mary Anne who was also struggling to cope and was left feeling helpless.

Mary Anne says, "I was under an enormous amount of stress and we were disagreeing most of the time because Eddie was so unwell and I was scared and tired.

"Coming to the hospice enabled him to get the best care he could and it has given him the boost he desperately needed.

"Everyone made him feel so comfortable and the nurses, domestics and volunteers gave him time. I really feel I have got my husband back and I’m so grateful for that. He has enjoyed being able to sit out in the garden so much. He sits in the pergola which he now calls his office!

"Being at the hospice is like being at a home from home. We’ve had some really lovely times together too. We’ve even sat and played cards - something we would never have had time to do, and we have been able to chat without me worrying about his medication, cooking dinner and tidying up all the time.

Eddie in his 'office' with his grandchildren

"Easter was a really special time and we were able set up a table and have dinner. We’ve been married for 42 years and it brought us back to our courting days.

"Our daughters, grandchildren and our niece come to visit all the time and it has been so nice for them to spend time with Eddie. The hospice really has taken care of all of us. We’ve been offered lots of support and counselling, although I haven’t taken it up."

Eddie was surprised when he was asked if he would like a drink and instead of just a tea or coffee, he was offered a beer. And one of the things he has enjoyed most is having a bath!

He says, "I haven’t had a bath in 10 years and I had the most wonderful bubble bath. It was amazing!

"I don’t know what I would have done if I hadn’t come to the hospice. I feel so safe and cared for."

Mary Anne and Eddie enjoying some time together on the ward

And Mary Anne has a message for anyone who is reluctant to come to the hospice.

"If anyone is referred to the hospice, don’t be afraid to come. It is such a caring environment. Before Eddie was admitted, we made an appointment to view the hospice and it took the dilemma away - we felt so reassured."