When 51-year-old Lee received a devastating pancreatic cancer diagnosis in October 2024, he and his young family made the decision to focus not on what was being taken away but on what could still be created.

Lee, a former medical representative and accomplished marathon runner, was given just months to live. Yet, in that time, he and his wife, Faye, have created special memories with their children, Darcey (10) and Marley (7), and preserved lasting treasures with the support of a local charity, Havens Hospices.

A meaningful part of Lee’s journey has been his involvement in ‘Stories for Life’ at the Fair Havens Hub. The charity, ‘Stories for Life’, has supported the local hospice in offering the opportunity for people to record messages and stories for their loved ones, a legacy that lives on, and has had a massive impact on Lee, allowing him to preserve his voice for his children.

He says, “I always read to them before bed… One of the things I’ve always said to them is, ‘You’re a dream come true, and I love you to bits’. Now they’ll always be able to hear that in my voice.”

Lee has recorded several stories, including his animated rendition of The Wonky Donkey, a family favourite designed to make Darcey and Marley smile and laugh.

Lee says, “It’s reassuring for me knowing it will be a comfort for my children, even though there may be tears. If Marley thinks Daddy’s in the clouds and he can still hear my voice – that’s amazing.”

Despite initial fears about hospice care, Lee’s perception changed entirely after his first visit to Fair Havens. “I didn’t want to come to Fair Havens initially because I had fears,” he admitted. “But it isn’t what you think. My first visit erased those fears.”

The support offered by Fair Havens extends to Lee’s whole family. Not only in terms of physical and emotional support for him, but also for his wife and children, and leaving behind a lasting legacy. His daughter Darcey receives regular school visits from hospice staff and has even created a memory box – an initiative that has brought comfort during this difficult time.

Christine Harris, Supportive Therapist Lead at Havens Hospices, says, “Projects like Stories for Life can make a real difference for the families we support. It’s a simple but powerful way to help people capture their voice, their love, and their memories, something their families can hold on to and cherish forever.”

The specialist care and support provided by Havens Hospices is completely free of charge. To those who support the charity through donations, Lee’s message is heartfelt and clear, “Your donations are having a massive impact – not just on my life, but on my children’s lives and the lives of other families. You never want to be in this position, but if you are, this is the best place you can be.”

Fair Havens provides care and support to adults living with incurable conditions in Southend, Castle Point and Rochford. Their services are provided free of charge and include the whole family, helping them make the most of life and make every day count.

To learn more about Fair Havens and how you can support them, visit www.havenshospices.org.uk/fair-havens

Published 23rd May 2025