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My husband was admitted to St Andrew’s Hospice on the 9th of January 2024, as he entered the end stage of his journey with pancreatic cancer.

Every single member of staff could not have been more kind, caring, compassionate and inclusive.

Myself and my brother in law took turns at staying overnight and the care extended to us was so thoughtful and really made a difference. On the nights where I went home to be mum to our two young children, I knew my husband was in the best of hands.

For us we knew this would be where my husband would pass away, as was his wish, and every aspect of those final days and moments were managed so carefully and respectfully. Everything was peaceful and we got to spend as much time together as we needed.

I cannot thank or praise every member of this incredible team enough.

My mum Linda was brought into the Hospice in April 2023 with terminal cancer and sadly passed away in June 2023.

At the start, we weren’t happy with the movement to Hospice as we had our hearts set on her moving in with myself to have her wish to be cared for in a home setting but her care plan had changed out of our control. But our opinions quickly changed as soon as we arrived to be lovingly greeted and settled into her room.

The support – from the front door of entering to my mum’s full daily care – was out of this world by the hero nurses and doctors and in the end, us as a family got to meet Sister Catherine who touched my heart when she visited.

I am forever grateful for the support, love and medical attention she received throughout her short time living there. During our time, it felt like they had been more friends than medical professionals. I just wish she had been fit enough to say thank you herself but we can surely say thank you. St Andrew’s Hospice will always be close to mine and my family’s heart.

My husband spent 5 weeks at St Andrew’s Hospice.

Stephen battled a rare cancer, olfactory neuroblastoma, for 8 years. He came through two surgeries and gruelling radiotherapy without a peep. He was such a strong non-complaining man, quiet and private.

On the third occurrence the cancer had spread to his brain and was untreatable. He was 3 years with this terminal diagnosis, suffering from seizures as well as deterioration in his mental and physical health.

Stephen suddenly contracted an infection in his brain. After 4 weeks in UHM he was transferred to St Andrew’s Hospice.

The care given to Stephen was exceptional. The attitude and approach by all staff always put Stephen at ease. They managed to lift his spirits, deliver all his personal care needs and do it in such a way that his dignity and character was intact.

Stephen was a very private individual and when it came to the stage where he wasn’t able to do for himself, he was only accepting of care from myself.

When Stephen got to the hospice, they delicately and tactfully took over his care needs stage by stage.

This allowed me to become Stephen’s wife again, rather than his carer. Something I’m so grateful for because I was tired emotionally, physically and spiritually.

During our stay at the Hospice, the care was always patient/family-centred. The emotional and spiritual care provided to Stephen, myself and family was excellent.

Everything was geared up to ensure that Stephen lived well until the very end.

I struggle to find appropriate words to describe the gratitude I have for each and every individual working at the Hospice.

Those that prepared the wholesome food, cleaned to the highest standard, provided personal and medical care, those who provided the spiritual and emotional care.

St Andrew’s Hospice will always have a place in my heart, and in the hearts of all our family and friends.

My dad Ian was admitted into the hospice after a dramatic decline in his condition with prostate cancer that had spread to the bones.

On the day of arrival, I was understandably distraught and had my 8 month old daughter with me. The staff immediately went and got myself and my mum tea and biscuits and my daughter a snack. Every day they would help and make sure us as a family were okay and making sure we were coping and if we needed help they were there. The staff would take my daughter to allow myself to go to the toilet or to get a drink, if they were in the room they were always including Gia and making sure she was a happy baby. The support provided by the hospice is incredible. I will be forever grateful for everything they have done and continue to do for family.

The staff of St Joseph’s Ward made it possible for my bed bound dad to be supported into a wheelchair and round to the Christmas fayre to allow Gia to see Santa for the first time and for her papa to see her with Santa on her first Christmas. My dad’s request was to be home to pass away and they made that possible. He returned home on the Monday and passed away peacefully early Thursday morning. To all the staff, thank you, the service provided by yous is something that I’ll cherish forever. Yous really are miracle workers. Yous deserve every bit of credit. Thank you.

Reluctant to admit how ill she really was, our mum, finally agreed to go to the hospice for respite. Fast forward almost 4 weeks and she had made herself right at home. From the day she arrived, she was made to feel important, and worthy, and very welcome and comfortable. She stayed in room 10 for the duration and she loved that wee room.

Every day she was so well looked after, and nothing was ever too big an ask, the staff were and in fact are, truly amazing. From the doctors, to the caregivers, to cleaners, reception staff, Cafè volunteers, shop staff to name but a few – every single person who works there is amazing. The kindness and compassion is second to none, and without this amazing service, our mum wouldn’t have been able to enjoy her final weeks with her family and friends, alongside having all of her medical needs met.

I will never be able to put into words, just how thankful we are to have such an amazing service for end of life care. Our mum was very well looked after and for that we will be eternally grateful. She sadly lost her battle with cancer and she slipped away with all of her family and loved ones around her bed. When she passed, the staff took us into the family room and afterwards, we returned to the room and she was in the bed, hair all brushed and tied up. They had her laying in crisp white bedding, with rose petals on her pillow and candles lit. It was beautiful and so fitting for our mum.

St. Andrew’s Hospice is a wonderful and beautiful place filled with love, care, compassion and kindness. Thank you all.

From the family of the late Marie Roche,
13.10.60 to 25.09.23. RIP mum xx

My Mum was admitted to St Andrew’s Hospice in December 2012.

We were a bit unsure of what to expect as we had never been in a hospice before, but as soon as my Mum went through the door, we knew she had made the right decision to be cared for in her final weeks by the dedicated staff who we were introduced to.

Within a short time, her pain was under control and she also had reiki sessions that she had never had before.

As it was almost Christmas, the nurses managed to get her out of bed and dressed to attend the Christmas party on the ward, plus Santa came to her bedside on Christmas Eve.

On New Year’s Day, I had the privilege of having my last New Year’s Day dinner with my Mum, a memory I will treasure forever. It’s these small things that the staff arrange that mean so much.

On another day, my brother was celebrating his 40th birthday and the staff kindly allowed him to stay overnight to celebrate becoming 40 with Mum by his side.

In the five weeks my Mum spent in the Hospice, our whole family were looked after too by staff who were always interested in making sure we were coping with everything and they even managed to move my Mum to a bigger room to accommodate the family in the final days. The compassion shown by Sr. Catherine and the Chaplaincy team greatly assisted my Mum’s final journey.

The care didn’t end there as I also attended bereavement counselling at the Hospice on a weekly basis following my Mum’s passing. This was very helpful to me and helped cement our family’s love and thanks to St. Andrew’s Hospice.

St Andrew’s Hospice is a truly incredible place.

In 2010, my mother, Winifred, was diagnosed with cancer and throughout her illness, she attended day services and counselling sessions provided by the Hospice, which emotionally and spiritually supported her in an inexplicably positive way.

My mother spent her final months in the St Andrew’s Hospice, and during this time the Hospice became our home. The Hospice is a place where each individual is valued and where the solemnest of times are transformed into heartening memories.

I will be forever grateful to St Andrew’s Hospice.

“It is really hard for me to put into words my gratitude for the team at the St. Andrew’s Hospice!

“My mum, Ann Mcconnell, was a patient at the height of COVID.

“In this time, all of the staff were amazing; looking after my mum, trying to make her days that little bit easier. From giving her some reiki to try relax her to cutting her hair to make her feel and look better, even arranging something special for her dinner, something she maybe fancied that wasn’t on the menu. Nothing was ever a bother.

“Sister Catherine would visit mum daily which my mum loved and looked forward to. Even at the worst time of her life, my mum still had her faith and it was lovely that Sister Catherine took this time to spend with my mum, it gave her much comfort.

“The care and medical attention were all first class and I will be forever grateful to you all!

“I sadly lost my beautiful mum and best friend on the 30 May 2021.

“God bless you all and thank you!”

My mum was transferred to the hospice in May 2016 from the hospital to have her symptoms and pain controlled before coming home again.

Suddenly, shortly after arrival at the hospice, mum took a turn for the worst and sadly passed away a few days later.

Without those doctors and nurses, our family would not have coped. They were so kind and wrapped us in comfort during the difficult time.

As a nurse, both my aunt and I found it hard to not nurse her, but we’re comforted that such wonderful ladies were coming in and out and even down to simple things like giving her a wee spray of her perfume and putting her face cream on etc.

Forever grateful for St Andrew’s Hospice and always will be.

My husband was diagnosed with an aggressive brain tumour in Jan 2021 .

We were supported by initially by the Hospice’s Compassionate Lanarkshire team. Ellie came to our home and gave him complimentary therapy sessions. This made all the difference to a very difficult situation.

As Brian became more unwell, he was admitted to the inpatient unit where we were able to be his family, not his carers.

Nothing was too much trouble for the staff.

He passed away peacefully with his family by his side. We as a family will continue to support the work of the Hospice via fundraising.

“My Dad was a very proud person, very strong willed, witty with a great sense of humour – right until days before his death. My Dad loved watching football, loved a tipple and putting a little bet on the football. He loved watching wildlife programmes too.

“Everyone at St Andrew’s Hospice made my Dad their top priority. Especially during difficult times, in the middle of a pandemic. This made my family feel heard in this difficult time of need. If it wasn’t for their medical recommendations, my father would have spent his last days in pain. Their care for his wellbeing was a relief. The care and compassion we received as a family was exceptional, from all Hospice staff, who went above and beyond.

“We had such a lovely Father’s Day with Dad. Due to COVID restrictions, we couldn’t all be together at one time, we did however still celebrate this wonderful day. He had visits from; my brother Graham, wife Clare and their daughter Colleen, my brother Robert, Magda and Millie and visits from myself, my mum Anne and my kids; Chloe, Georgia and Ray. The Hospice even allowed my Dad’s wee dog, Lexi in to see him which was so special!

“My Dad celebrated his 68th birthday in the Hospice on 13th July 2021. We had a little party and he loved seeing everyone. My Dad’s favourite café, Agnes’ Café, kindly gifted him an afternoon tea. He missed going there, it was his favourite place, so this was a special treat for him. My Mum and Dad became close friends with all the staff. The staff were amazing with my Dad on his birthday too and even sang Happy Birthday to him. A present which he enjoyed from us was his photo blanket of all the family, which gave him great comfort on his final days.

“My Dad was an amazing man. It was such a great loss to us all when he sadly passed away on 4th August 2021 surrounding by his loved ones in St Andrew’s Hospice.

“We could never have had the quiet, restful last hours with him that we did without the Hospice’s help. The kindness and empathy from everyone there is beyond anything we would have expected. The staff and volunteers accommodated our endless enquiries and fears; held our hands and gently guided us through a process we knew nothing about. They were there when we didn’t expect but needed them, at all times.

“My Dad spent his last Father’s Day and birthday in the Hospice, with staff assisting to help us make happy memories on these occasions as a family. We are eternally grateful that the end of his life was spent there.”

“My husband was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer just before COVID.

“He had only been to St Andrew’s a few times, at the day centre, before it closed.

“The hospice gave him an iPad and sent someone out to show him how to work it so he could keep in touch with the hospice.

“My husband enjoyed interaction with them and the group. It gave him something to look forward to as he was shielding.

“We also really appreciated the meals that were delivered. My husband just loved the soup!

“After my husband passed away they were still there for me; still bringing meals and keeping in touch with me.

“Now shedding a tear. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart.”

“My husband Jazz McMahon passed away in St Andrew’s Hospice in January. During this distressing time, we were both cared for with love, compassion & humour.

“On entering the hospice, we were enveloped in a support system which physically, emotionally & spiritually is second to none.

“On reading back these words they seem wholly inadequate to describe my feelings toward the hospice & every person involved in it. God bless you all.”

“My mum Ella Donald spent her last few weeks in St Andrew’s Hospice.

“It was her birthday on the 19th July 2022 and the staff arranged for a party for her, including a birthday cake.

“She had a wonderful day and we all have amazing memories from it.”

“I would like to pass on huge thanks to St Andrew’s Hospice for the care and support for my mum during her recent stay.
“Mum’s medication wasn’t under control at home which resulted in her experiencing discomfort, pain and anxiety. When mum was offered to go into the Hospice to manage her medication, she was extremely scared and didn’t have any hope.
“A week later, mum left the Hospice with no pain and not experiencing discomfort and anxiety. Mum requested that I post this to let others know if they feel scared about going into the Hospice like she did, not to be scared. This stay has given my mum quality of life back and please trust the staff here, they are absolutely amazing. Thanks to all the staff.”

“Can’t thank St. Andrew’s Hospice enough when our mum was in her last few weeks of her life.

“Although we managed to keep mum in her own home, when things were getting too hard, you guys stepped in to help with her pain control and it really helped our mum to be peaceful and pain free for the last few weeks of her life.”

I remember the first day when I arrived, they showed me to my room, it was a lovely room.  They left me to settle down, to be honest I don’t remember much about my first few days, I was in pain and worried.  I noticed the Hospice was very different to the hospital, it was clear to see they cared very much, they are very respectful and they made me feel comfortable.

I remembered night times, I was tearful because I was scared I would die.  A nurse would sit with me to calm me down as they said they would help me to feel comfortable, and this was true.

They had never dealt with a deaf patient before but they were very good at making me feel fully understood which hadn’t happened in the hospital.  I was shocked when the staff wanted to learn to do sign language, they wanted to do this to make me feel happy and show that they care and have respect for me.

Hospice home is different, if I have pain, I ask for relief and they get it very quickly.

The doctors and nurses work very hard to try and sort out what the best medication is for me.

Patients always come first with the staff, if they are busy with paperwork, they leave it to go sort out the patient.

After nearly 3 weeks the medication is working, I still get pain in my eye but it’s nowhere near what it was and my body pain is better.

I am glad to be in here, they know about my past issues, they are very helpful and fully understand. I have PTSD issues but I’m not affected here in my ‘hospice home’, because I trust the staff and I feel closer to the nurses that I did in hospital.  They sit and listen, share, talk, just more understanding.

My name is Karen, I am 46 years of age and came into the Hospice just over 2 weeks ago.  I couldn’t keep anything down through nausea and pain, I have stage 4 Lung Cancer, which has now taken in my chest.  I have experienced nothing but fantastic support in the Hospice from all the staff and anything that I have needed.

I have now got blood clots in both lungs which I am not giving into, every day I have a walk round my room which helps.

If I need any pain relief or anything, it is with me within 10 minutes.  The staff I cannot praise enough with my treatment, they are fantastic.  I wouldn’t change one thing in this Hospice.  This is my second time being in and came out a new woman.

Keep up the excellent work which all your staff maintain.

I couldn’t say a bad word about the Hospice, the staff are so polite and helpful and wonderful angels.

Your with all my heart and praise.

Karen, aged 46

“My husband was in the Hospice, and four days before he died it was our Ruby Wedding Anniversary.

We had booked a meal for family and friends at a local hotel and the Hospice staff helped us to get my husband dressed in his best to go for the meal.

When our daughter and son-in-law brought us back we saw that the staff had arranged to have his bed moved into a private room, where there was a bed I could sleep in and be near him on our last Anniversary. It was a very thoughtful thing to do and they also arranged for a special breakfast the next morning for both of us.

This was only one of innumerable kindnesses shown to us, as a family, while my husband was ill. We cannot praise St Andrews Hospice enough for their care and kindness. God bless them all.”

Posted on 06/09/17

“My dad spent the last few weeks of his life in this amazing hospice. Initially, the decision to reach out to the hospice was a scary one but with the help of our Macmillan nurse and the staff at St Andrew’s, it was very gentle and reassuring for dad rather than scary.

My dad was so independent and determined to walk through the hospice doors himself, at 62 with oesophageal cancer and a long history of surgery, chemo, constant infections. He was a real warrior.

My dad was in the St Margaret’s Ward, I have never met such a great bunch of nurses and auxiliaries. My dad was given the highest level of care, every little thing to make him comfortable was never a problem and always happened straight away. The small things like that are such a big deal to the families of the patients, just to know our loved ones are getting cared for with such empathy is such a comfort.

As dad’s last days approached, the nurses moved us to a lovely big conservatory.  My brother, sister and our husbands and wives held a bedside vigil with dad for 7 days and nights. During this week, watching our father prepare to die were the worst and most cherished days of my life.

Again, the nurses and all the staff were there to help us; a rattle of a tea trolley filled with toast at 2am, a plate of sandwiches and bowls of soup for the six of us, never asked for, just brought because they knew we hadn’t eaten for hours, a hand to squeeze mine or rub my shoulder when I had moments of despair. The staff are simply angels with huge hearts.

Of course I can’t forget Sister Catherine. She came to see dad every day and every night and spent time talking with us and praying with us, my dad really had a soft spot for her, as do my brother, sister and I and we often speak of her.

My dad passed away comfortably and peacefully on 27th February 2014 with us by his side. Thank you so much from the bottom of our hearts for holding our hands and giving guidance and comfort every step of the way.  St Andrew’s will always have a place in my heart.”

Posted on behalf of Laura on 28/04/15

“I’m not sure where to start. When I was first referred to St Andrew’s Hospice by my District Nurse, I was very sceptical about it all and was sure it wouldn’t be for me.

It was a very frightening time for me and I had no time for thoughts of therapies and talking about what I was going through was not something I wanted to do.

I was scared at first but after my initial meeting with Ellie I felt so comfortable with her. I was able to open up in a way I hadn’t before. When my first set of chemo didn’t work she gave me the words I needed to hear to go on and find the courage to go ahead with the next lot of treatment.

Thankfully I am now in remission and feeling well. I’m climbing hills, out riding my bike and hoping to go back to work soon. I feel like a child again with too much energy.  Her words of encouragement and therapies have helped me get through the darkest time in my life. I’m now grateful to be looking forward towards the light and living life again.”

Posted on 19/04/19

“When I first came to the Hospice, I wrongly thought that people come in and come out in a body bag. I was quite nervous about coming in but my Macmillan nurse told me that she hadn’t seen anyone in as much pain as I was for a long time. She offered to refer me to the Hospice so they could manage my pain. That was a new concept to me. My girls encouraged me to come here.

When I first arrived, I could barely function. I really struggled to walk and I’d been lying down since I had my chemotherapy in April. I had gone down to 7.5 stones in weight. I couldn’t get out, I couldn’t drive, I had to order my shopping online and with the tumour, I couldn’t sit comfortably or walk around. That was such a debilitating thing. I couldn’t even sit and write my book.

I am writing a book. I’m doing it for my daughters and granddaughter. I would like to leave a legacy, to let them understand what my life was like because it’s very different from what their lives are like. I am writing this book so they have something to read in the future and say ‘Oh crikey, dad did this!’ or ‘Grandad did this!’ I’m also going to leave a voice recording for my granddaughter Amelia, so that when she is a teenager, she can listen to it, and I’ll be able to speak to her. I’m going to make her a nice pendant too. Having written this book, they will have a better understanding of what my life was like.

I came to the Hospice and within two days, I was up and walking around. It was an absolute revelation to me; the change in medication, wonderful meals –meals that would make Gordon Ramsey look like an apprentice – and care and kindness on a level I’ve seldom seen. What astounded me was how you can get a mix of so many people who really do lovingly care and get them all in one place.  The doctor had time to speak with my daughter, to phone her and reassure her.

I have benefitted from the huge bank of knowledge [the Hospice staff have] and the willingness to experiment. I mean ‘experiment’ in the sense that the doctors have a keenness to try things and if it works, that’s fine, and if it doesn’t, they’ll stop it and try something else. They will find something that does the trick. The care is personalised and centred on the individual.

I have been doing some stair work with the rehabilitation team. I’ve been walking and stretching and as soon as I’m well enough, I’d like to do their exercise classes as well. In the last few days I’ve really improved. I’m not going to get my six-pack back but I can work with what I’ve got.

I didn’t expect to be able to walk around and go outside for fresh air. Once you got me walking, it was wonderful. One evening, the rain was chucking down and I thought ‘I’ve not had rain on my face for months and months!’ So I went outside and enjoyed the rain blowing in my face. It was lovely to experience that because I hadn’t for so long. I came in absolutely soaked, hung my dressing gown up to dry and had a beautiful shower, I changed into some dry clothes and I thought ‘Wow! I really enjoyed that.’

The facilities in the Hospice are amazing too. I was a quantity surveyor by trade and I look at the workmanship and what’s been done in this building and it is first class. You guys go the extra mile; it’s like living in a five-star hotel!

I am humbled to be here and I am deeply grateful for everything the Hospice is doing for me. I want to help raise awareness and change perceptions of hospice care.”

Posted on behalf of Ian on 27/09/18

“My Mum was admitted to St Andrew’s for End Of Life Care in 2008.

She was indulged by everyone from the kitchen staff, housekeeping staff, volunteers, the Religious Sisters, Doctors, Nurses, Holistic Therapists and the Pastoral Care Team. Thanks to everyone of them, she lived for the time she was there and not just endure it.

From my perspective, as an only child , I had the reassurance and peace of mind that Mum couldn’t have been in better hands; a great source of comfort in these difficult times.

Indeed, the Hospice became my second home and the staff my extended family. My dogs, Robbie & Brodie, were frequent welcome visitors providing joy and, at times, chaos to Mum and other patients.

Not only was Mum a priority to all of them, I was spoiled also. At Christmas, the staff set up the conservatory and allowed us to enjoy a special Christmas Dinner just for us. As a daughter, what more could you hope for but outstanding care, compassion and love for a parent and that was in abundance round the clock.

A truly special place for exceptionally special people. Thanks from the bottom of my heart to each and everyone of you.”

Posted on 19/02/19

“My husband was diagnosed with terminal lung cancer in August 2016. In February 2017, the MacMillan nurses told me about the Maggie’s Centre after we were told Colin would be coming home from the hospital for palliative care. Sadly, he died suddenly before coming home. He was 48. But amongst the information the Maggie’s centre had given me, was information on how to break the news to our children and about the child bereavement therapy through St Andrew’s Hospice for the girls who were 7 & 10 at the time.

I didn’t think we were eligible for bereavement therapy as my husband hadn’t been cared for in the Hospice. I was assured this didn’t matter. The girls attended the drop in on a Friday evening and have benefited enormously. Mary Jo and her team of volunteers are fantastic. I have also benefited from the bereavement counselling with Mary Jo at the Hospice and honestly can’t thank them enough.

Living without my husband is the hardest thing ever for the girls and I, but because of the excellent bereavement therapy we have received, we are moving forward. The services are there to be used by anyone who has experienced the death of a loved one, regardless of whether they were cared for in the Hospice. This is an amazing thing for the Hospice to do as I don’t know how I’d have gotten through this devastating time without their support.”

Posted on 24/08/18

“I would like to highlight the exceptional care my husband is receiving in St Andrew’s Hospice.

I could not have imagined how much this is helping my husband and all our family. The staff are all wonderful. They have a perfect balance of professionalism, friendliness, love and care. They work so hard to make all the patients as comfortable as possible. They focus on the person which helps us to forget about the illness.

Since my husband has been in the hospice, he has laughed more than he has done for weeks, he is relaxed and comfortable. The nursing staff have a special way with my husband which is truly remarkable. Each and every staff member has such special qualities. The approachable doctors, nurses, auxiliaries, complementary therapists, physiotherapists, staff who clean the rooms, staff who cook the meals, receptionists, spiritual support, all make the hospice a unique place.

The help and support our family has received has been great. Every aspect within the hospice operates with perfection.

We are still on our difficult journey and I would like to thank St Andrew’s Hospice for making the unbearable, bearable.

When cancer comes into your family you just want to curl up into a ball and hope it goes away. The reality is that it does not, and nothing can change it. St Andrew’s helps to uncurl the ball and deal with it, in the most stress free and humane way imaginable.

From the bottom of our hearts – thank you.”

Posted on 28/03/18

“As a family, our first experience of the Hospice was in 2002 when my mum, Elizabeth, had terminal cancer and came to the Hospice for a review of symptoms. We had her home for a month but then she needed to come back in for end of life care.

“At that time, we were all blown away by the level of care that, not only my mum got, but the care we, as a family, received. We were very much kept in the loop and taken care of so I knew what the Hospice could do.

“At that time, Sr. Catherine was chatting to my mum and asked her to pose for a publicity shot for the Royal Bank of Scotland’s Summer magazine. My mum, who was quite a quiet person, was up for it. She got her hair done and her nails done and put her new blouse on to have her photo taken with a couple of the nurses and we got a copy of the magazine. So when I was asked [to share my story in the Hospice magazine], 16 years on from when my mum did it, I thought ‘If my mum did it, I can do it too’.

“My mum was so well looked after and the wrap-around care you get is still the same today.

“For that reason, seeing what the Hospice did for my mum 16 years ago, when I was told that I am now in the end stage of my disease and we were now looking at palliative care, I was asked how I felt about being referred to the Hospice, I immediately said yes.

“For some people, the ‘H’ word is terrifying for them, but I know that it works. I have these very specific symptoms that are making me distressed at home. I knew that I would come in, I would be assessed and [the Hospice team] would work out a plan to address my symptoms and try the plan out. [The plan] can be fine tuned here in the Hospice over three, four, five days and then they make sure everything is in place for you to go home again and be as well as you can be at home. It’s been explained to me that this may happen a couple of times.

“It gives me that contact with the Hospice, so that when the time comes at the end, if I feel that I want to come here, I am part of the family and I wouldn’t be frightened to come back for end of life care.

“When mum came into the Hospice, we felt our shoulders go down, knowing she was going to be cared for. We still visited everyday but we knew we could go home and get a night’s sleep, knowing that she was getting the best care.

“I have to face it, I’m going to die and it’s not going to be next year, but I am happy to die in this environment. I can see that [my family] are content because they know my needs are being met.

“I’ve received both occupational therapy and physiotherapy whilst I’ve been here. It’s been very interesting. When I go home, I don’t know how long I’ve got, but I want to be as fit as I can be. I was a little concerned about coping with stairs at home but [the therapists] were very reassuring. They told me that it’s okay to take three steps at a time and then stop for a good, long while to get my breath back and to get my strength back. I’ve even been practicing exercises in bed, to keep the circulation in my legs going. The reflexology has been wonderful as well.

“They’ve organised a wheelchair for me for when I go home so if it’s a nice afternoon, my brother has invited me to the golf club for a drink, or I can go down to Clyde Valley.

“The whole team has encouraged me. Yes, I’m dying and I’m not going to have long but the whole point is to get me home for while, to be as well as I can be, so that I can say ‘We’re going to go out today’. I found that very encouraging.

“I was diagnosed with ovarian cancer two years ago. They knew right from the word go that it was incurable but it could be treated for a length of time. We didn’t know the length of time but throughout my treatment, I’ve been very active. We’ve had great family holidays around Scotland; we’d go to Dunkeld and St Andrews and my husband and I went for afternoon tea at Gleneagles – just enjoying time with friends and family.

“To know that my medical needs are being catered for by specialists in palliative care . They know all of the fine tuning and when you talk to them, they reinforce that one size doesn’t fit all and by being in the Hospice, [my symptoms and medication] can be constantly reviewed.

“The staff here are fantastic. It is very much a case of ‘You are a person, you are not a disease’, they have time for you. I’ve had my hair done, I’ve had two reflexology sessions, they will bring your food at times that suit you best – you feel as though you’re the centre of attention. It’s great, it really is.”

Posted on behalf of Elizabeth on 23/03/18

“My brother was admitted to St Joseph’s Ward in December 2017. Prior to being admitted he was aware and we as a family were aware it was for ‘End of Life Care’.

Although for the most part of his short [time at the Hospice] he was unaware of his surroundings, we just knew he was at peace! Every member of the Hospice Team was there, not only for my brother, but for us as his family and our relatives too. James was treated with tremendous dignity and the level of care given to him was exceptional from the moment we entered the doors of the Hospice.

Every member of staff made us feel like we were their family. We were able to laugh and to cry. [It was] far from being a sad place, it was filled by comfort and good cheer. It was a particularly difficult time of year for my brother’s passing, just before Christmas, but despite this we feel that the Hospice was ‘ Our Happy Place ‘. We knew that our brother passed away peacefully and that we take great comfort in.

We will never be able to thank all of the staff enough! Each and every individual is worth their weight in gold.”

Posted on behalf of Tom on 02/02/18

“I was given a room for 3 weeks to spend with my husband before his passing.

I thought I would be in a constant state of grief. Every single person in the Hospice made me feel so welcome. The nurses, doctors, domestics, admin and cafe staff were all amazing. I cried and laughed every day but felt blessed being able to be with my husband until the end. Everyone treated him with such dignity and I will never forget them.

Strangely, days after the funeral when reality kicked in and I paced the floor at night, I wanted to go back to the Hospice where I knew I would be welcomed and they would understand how I was feeling. Every person in this wonderful place are hand picked angels and I am honoured to have met them all.”

Posted on behalf of Grace on 19/09/17

Len was referred to our Wellbeing @ St Andrew’s service. His legs and feet were very swollen and red and it was affecting his mobility and balance.

Len: My confidence had been shattered. I had been in the hospital three times within eleven weeks with the same thing. As soon as it had cleared up, I was discharged again. I said to myself, ‘I can’t go on like this for the rest of my life, I need to do something’. I was encouraged by my two sisters to contact the Hospice. I was then referred to St Andrew’s Hospice Day Services by my MacMillan nurse. The Day Services staff got me an appointment with Hospice Consultant Dr McWilliams, June, my Complementary Therapist and Ann, my Counsellor and I’ve never looked back since.

The difference that massage has made; I’ve no walking stick, my confidence is back to normal. My life was built around the golf course, I was a good golfer but I hadn’t played golf in two years because of the pain and my mobility. When I first met June, she asked me what my aim was. I told her that it was to get back on the golf course but I didn’t think that would ever happen.

I’ve been coming here for 9 weeks now but after only a couple of weeks, I noticed a big difference. I’ve been showing my leg to everybody!

I’ve had chemotherapy and radiotherapy and it was a new drug that I’d been put on that was knocking me sideways, the side effects; my balance, the restless legs, it was terrible. The massages have helped with all of that.

June: We’ve also been doing Reiki after the therapy, to help calm Len down a little. When he first came to see me, he had a MYCAW (Measure Yourself Concerns and Wellbeing) score of 18, the highest score you can get. Now, it has gone down to a score of 1. Now he is walking more, he’s got rid of the walking stick, he’s more mobile, the swelling is down, the redness is better, the pain issue is not there anymore and the restless legs have gone.

Len: I had told June previously that my shins were sore. I have cancer of the bones. I’ve had radiotherapy on my sides and on my back but because of the pain in my legs, I was convinced it had spread there too. Now I’m not. I never think about cancer on my legs anymore and that’s a great psychological thing. I was at the hospital last week to get the results of my tests. I asked how the bones were. My doctor told me the bones they were fine. I then asked about my legs, was anything showing in my legs? He said no, nothing.

It’s a great feeling when you get up in the morning and you have a purpose in life. It’s a great, great feeling. You have no idea the difference it’s made to me. I went to the golf range this week, that was the first time I’d hit a golf ball in almost two years. Boy, did I enjoy it!  It was great. I hit the first ball and it came off the sweet spot as they say, I couldn’t have hit it any better. I couldn’t get back up the road quick enough to tell my sister!

I had given up my golf membership because I couldn’t do it anymore and I had resigned to that fact. I didn’t like it; it was the worst thing for me. That was worse than the chemotherapy or radiotherapy and all the side effects – losing my hair and everything else. Now, my next target is to play golf again, to get back on the course. I’ll take it slowly.

I can get out and about now; do my own thing, get my own messages. I’ve got my independence back.  The leg exercises I do with Scott in the Wellbeing classes help with my mobility too. I try to do some myself in the house too.

This was the best thing that has happened to me, coming here. Before, I thought I just couldn’t go on like this, ending up in the hospital every three weeks. It was terrible. Dr McWilliams got in touch with my own doctor and they agreed to decrease my medication. That has also made a difference. Between that and the massage, it’s all working together. It’s complete teamwork. Ann, my counsellor at the Hospice, the way she spoke to me and listened to me – that gave me confidence too.

My MacMillan nurse thinks I’m looking great now. She comes to see me every fortnight and always asks how my legs are doing and I show her the difference in them. She thinks it’s great.

There’s a first class job being done on me, I can assure you of that. The number of people who tell me I’m looking well is great. To look at me, they wouldn’t know what I’ve been through.  About fourteen months ago, I was lying in hospital and the doctor asked me if I wanted to send for my family. He said I only had a 50/50 chance of making it through the night. I just told that ‘Ach, I’ll be here in the morning!’

June: A lot of your progress is to do with your positive attitude as well.

Len: Every three years, I bought a new car and this year, it was due when I came out of the hospital but I didn’t think there was any point in me buying a new car – the way I felt, I didn’t think I would be here for long. But if you go out into the car park today, you’ll see my new car! I got it a couple of weeks ago. I’ve got my confidence back and that’s all down to coming to St Andrew’s Hospice.

If I hadn’t come here, I’d be in a sorry state today. The team have all played their part, it’s been brilliant. If talking about my experience convinces one person to come here, it will have been worth it.

If someone had told me two years ago that I’d sit down and get my legs massaged or sit down with a counsellor,  I’d have said ‘On yer bike, no chance!’ but coming here, in this environment, I realised that these people are here to help me, so you should take the help that is being offered to you. The whole circle has made such a difference to me, you can be proud of yourselves. I’d like to thank everyone – from my two sisters, to my MacMillan Nurse to everybody at St Andrew’s Hospice for their support.

Posted on behalf of Len on 11/08/17

“Dear Santa,

Thank you for not forgetting me this year and allowing me to recover my health at St Andrew’s Hospice, Airdrie. There are a lot of people attending to me every day to help me feel better – and they have been successful – I am feeling very well.

For “Santa” read “the doctors, nurses, auxiliaries, cleaners, physiotherapists, administrators, complementary therapists and others” that are the St Andrew’s Hospice experience. The team also includes clever pathologists, blood technicians and other little elves working in the background external to the hospice providing invaluable service.

Living alone at home I eventually employed someone to help with cleaning, shopping and collecting prescriptions one day a week. Now that the vegetables had been delivered it was up to me to make a pot of soup for example. Short of energy that pot of soup became the ‘project’ for the day or maybe the next day.  Reluctantly I realised that I was not coping on my own and I was fortunate to find a welcome at St Andrew’s Hospice.

Every day here at St Andrew’s Hospice I have plenty of time to observe what’s going on from my bedside.  I don’t know why it took me so long to remember what an important part ‘rest’ plays in the healing process. However it’s the whole package that Santa and his elves brings to their job every day that has made a difference to me. Thank you for another wonderful Christmas.”

Posted on 22/12/16

“When I was given the news of having breast cancer, and then a fortnight later, secondary cancer, it struck fear into my heart. No one wants to hear the word ‘cancer’. The word ‘cancer’ is terrifying, absolutely terrifying. The same goes for words like ‘hospice’, ‘Macmillan Nurses’ and ‘Maggie’s’.

“You don’t know what they are going to do, you don’t know why you’re going- apart from the fact that you’ve been handed this sentence – you don’t know what’s involved.

“When I first came here for the exercise class, on the recommendation of my Macmillan Nurse, I first thought: ‘Hospice? I’m not ready for a hospice. I’m alright, I don’t need this.’

“I lost all my confidence when they diagnosed me so I came to the door [of the Day Hospice], around 12 weeks ago, and I rung the bell. I nearly didn’t ring the bell, I saw the bell and I thought ‘No, I can’t do this, I have to go’ but I rang the bell.

“It was aromatherapy first and then the exercise class. The aromatherapy has helped me to cope with an exercise class. I had eczema on my foot but [aromatherapy] has helped and given me the confidence to wear pink, and bright colours, I love my colours.

“Then my Complementary Therapist brought me through to meet the Physiotherapist for the exercise class. I thought I was fit until I started here. My Physiotherapist told me to take my time but I thought ‘I can’t do this, I shouldn’t be here’. I was doing 40 lengths of swimming a week but on coming here, I couldn’t put one foot in front of another.

“Coming here has been 12 weeks of fun. I have loved every minute of it. There’s a bit of a laugh, a bit of talk, my Physiotherapist supports me, she pushes me but says ‘If you can’t do it, don’t do it’.

“I can’t believe I’m the same person that I was when I first chapped that door, because now I can chap that door and it doesn’t bother me in the slightest, I love it!

“We work on stretches, balance, getting everything moving again, and standing on one leg for sixty seconds. Sixty seconds has been a target from week one and I managed 44 seconds last week, which is the best I’ve ever done. It’s brilliant, it really is. I wouldn’t be where I am today without what I’ve done here.

“When I go for my aromatherapy, it relaxes me. Reiki puts me to sleep, I just drift. I’m totally refreshed and raring to go.

“I get reflexology too. I love it; I’d never had that before until 12 weeks ago. Nobody ever touches my feet. I used to go to the beautician to get my nails painted but when I lost my confidence, [I stopped] so that is something else I’ve had to overcome. My complementary therapist recommended reflexology and I’m glad that she did, because like I say, my foot was red raw with eczema and it’s not red raw now, you would never know I had it. I wish we’d taken before and after pictures – the same with the exercise class, then we could see [where I was then] to where I am now.

“Doing this, talking, if I hadn’t come here, I wouldn’t be here; I would have given up. I would have lay in bed and given up. This has given me my life back for as long as I can keep it going, which is what I’m going to do. If I hadn’t done it, I wouldn’t be sitting here talking to you.

“It’s an inspiration and I just wish that more people knew about it and would use [the service]. Some people do know about it but they won’t take that step.

“You meet people, and then the following week, one of them isn’t there, which has happened to me a few times, but because of the staff – they help you through it. I’ve met some wonderful people in here.

“You do get attached [to people] but I think the staff do tremendously well. They don’t invade your space and you don’t invade theirs. They’ll do whatever they can for you, they’ll do as much as they can, but they don’t come into your space if you’re not ready for it.

“It’s helped me socially, mentally and physically – the full package. It really has. When I first came here, I didn’t have these colours on. I had a dark pair of trousers and a dark top on but then I thought ‘No, I’m colour, this is me’. My Physiotherapist actually encouraged that because I was talking to her after one of the exercise classes and she asked how I was. I said ‘I’m fine but I do colours, I like colours, I’m a colourful person’.  I love pink so she told me to come back next week with a pink outfit on and that’s what I did.

“Things have happened over the years that have knocked my confidence, I’ve had to rebuild quite a few times and I have. I’m still here, I’m still fighting and I’ll keep fighting as long as I can walk, talk…

“If [talking about my experiences] helps another person, I’ll do it. If talking about it can do something for someone else that was like me, that’s good. I hope that a lot more people know about the services here.

“I’ve spoken to a lot of people, I’ve got friends who are going through the same as me and they don’t know where to go. I’ve told them to come along. I’ve told them it’s not about going to the hospice and getting into a bed and thinking ‘That’s me’. It’s not like that. It’s a day unit where you meet people, you get exercise, and you get a chat and cup of tea. It’s the taking part, it motivates you. Some people are just terrified to take that step, like I was, but if I hadn’t taken that step, I wouldn’t [be where I am today].

“I am me, I am actually a better me. I’m more confident than I’ve ever been. My aim was to make it to a night out in the West End of Glasgow last week. I went and I had my first pair of high heels on since my diagnosis and I was up dancing in the middle of the floor and have photos. [At one point during the evening] someone asked my husband where I was, I was up on the dance floor. I thought ‘I’m not sitting down!’

“I just get up every day, put my earrings in, put on whatever I want to wear and I just make the most of that day and it’s because of these places, I know it is.

“Cancer can be a lonely place if people don’t know about places like this.”

Posted on behalf of Susan on 30/09/2016

“In 1994, I was 13 years old, my mum was quickly moved to St Andrew’s Hospice. She wasn’t there long but was cared for so well, my words could not do it justice!

She passed away in March, and even at the Light Up a Life Service in December that year and years after, the ladies who cared for my mum still recognised us and were interested in our wellbeing!

It has been almost 20 years now and although still difficult, I still remember how nice the hospice was as if it were yesterday! Thank you all so much! You do such a good and caring job!”

Posted on behalf of Allison on 05/01/2015

My dad was admitted into the Mary Aikenhead ward in St Andrew’s Hospice in July 2019. The love and care given to him by all nurses, doctors, Sr. Agnes and Fr. Michael, I will never forget, and the support they gave me.