When Dad was diagnosed with end stage kidney failure, we realised that whatever time he had left was precious. Practical measures such as a stair lift and a mobility scooter meant that he could remain mobile for as long as possible.

I was visiting Mum & Dad the weekend that the palliative nurse came round and told them about the services that Kirkwood offer. She mentioned the drop in centre and recommended that we take a look. We all looked at each other and Dad said that he didn’t fancy it. I must admit, we all had the impression that a hospice was where you go to die and Dad wasn’t quite ready for that yet!. Nevertheless, Mum, Dad, my sister Dawn & I all did go along that afternoon and had coffee and a chat...This day completely changed our lives!

Following that initial visit, M&D and Dawn proceeded to go along every week, taking part in art activities & coffee mornings. M&D even did armchair Zumba and Mum had complimentary therapies such as massages. No matter how Dad was feeling, he would always want to go along and his face would light up as he entered the room! I joined them on certain Fridays whenever I was visiting for the weekend and, despite only going along every few weeks, all of the volunteers and staff knew my name and made me welcome.

You imagine a hospice to be a sad place but, in fact it is is the complete opposite...so much so that Mum is convinced that fairy dust is sprinkled over you as your enter!

Sadly, Dad died in hospital in May and, because of Covid, the Support & Therapy Centre is not open so Mum is not able to go at the moment but, as soon as restrictions are lifted, she will be back there, among the smiling faces and incredible people that make up Kirkwood. She has even suggested that she may like to volunteer herself.

When Mum told me about the Bike Ride, I had just started cycling during lockdown and I decided, without hesitation, that I wanted to challenge myself in order to raise funds for the place and people that have made such a difference to our lives. Due to Covid, I wasn’t able to do the challenge last year but I’m now excited to be training for this year’s ride in July.

This is what Kirkwood say...”Within the next decade, someone we know will be diagnosed with a life limiting illness that they won't get better from. A parent, grandparent, partner, sibling, son or daughter. A friend colleague or neighbour. At some point in the future, and with increasing regularity we all have to face up to this painful reality. At Kirkwood, we don’t think anyone should have to face this alone.We are here to support anyone affected by a life limiting illness, every step of the way.”...

Their support goes way beyond this and, as a family we owe so much to them so this is MY way of saying “thank you”