Jean has been attending Fair Havens Hub – formerly Day Hospice – for seven years. She is in remission from cancer and also has motor neurone disease.

Jean says, “Since I started coming to Fair Havens, I’ve gained so much confidence. Sometimes my speech goes and I can struggle, but they never rush you. And even when you are tired, they say, close your eyes and just relax.

“Family try to understand, but it’s difficult to explain things to them sometimes. When you come to the hospice the staff will help you find words that help you explain things to our relatives and friends.

“The creative therapy sessions are great. I used to craft with my daughter, which I really enjoyed. You think, ‘I am not going to be able to do this,’ but the therapist Lizzie and everyone else who comes in makes you feel so relaxed. We look at each other’s crafts and they are all different.

“Some people, like family and friends, say why are you laughing and why are you so happy coming to the hospice, they can’t understand it!

“If someone has just been referred to Fair Havens and they are worried about it I would be honest with them. I was upset when it was first suggested to me, but I would never ever turn that clock back, because to me they saved me and got me to where I am now. And yes, I would always encourage someone to come.”

While attending Fair Havens Hub Jean struck up a friendship with another patient, also called Jean, which helped build a vital support network for both patients.

Jean C continued, “I remember the first time I meet Jean; she was sitting on the other side of the room. I always remember I cried when I first came, so I said to her – come over and sit with us. The seat next to me was free and that was it, we always then sat together.

“We instantly connected, and we are still friends today and it’s thanks to Fair Havens that we met. Although we both had different types of cancer, we were able to share experiences and support each other.

“I can’t thank people enough for supporting Havens Hospices – I’m not sure there are any words to say apart from a big, big thank you for all their support.”

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Published in 2022