“Being diagnosed with an incurable illness can be frightening, and the thought of coming to a hospice can be scary for some people, but once you are here, it’s not scary at all. 

“Coming to Fair Havens makes you realise you can still do things – you don’t have to sit indoors. The staff are amazing, and no one treats you like you are ill. It’s so nice to be able to relax and be yourself. 

“I first came here for the breathlessness and relaxation course and now have done Pilates and lots of arts and craft workshops, including painting stones, painting with watercolours, flower arranging and pottery. 

“I’ve been doing Therapy Through Nature for six months, and you don’t have to be a gardener. It’s lovely to see things grow and meet people who are going through something similar and who understand what you are going through. Although we have families and friends we can talk to, we can be more honest about how we are feeling with each other.  

“We have fun, discuss our illnesses, and support each other. We’ve made great friendships, speaking to each other outside the group and going for lunch together – it’s like a social club! 

“To plant a seed is to believe in tomorrow.” 

To find out more about how you or someone you know would benefit from the care at Fair Havens, click here. 

If you would like to donate to Fair Havens please click here. 

Published in 2024