For many of the patients and families we care for, being in the place they call home surrounded by the people, animals and things they love can make an enormous difference when living with a terminal illness.
Artist and grandfather, John Atkins received support from our caring healthcare assistants at home before he died from heart failure in January 2012. Here, John’s daughter Charli Buxton shares her memories of her dad and his care.
“Dad was a prolific artist who lived and painted racehorses in racing town, Middleham. Being able to be at home at the end of his life made a huge difference. His art studio was in one of the spare bedrooms and, from the bed which Herriot Hospice Homecare helped us to get, he was able to see the moors out of the window and hear the racehorses going past on their way to the gallops. It also brought him great comfort to be close to Mum.
“Being at home and receiving Herriot’s care brought him comfort in his final weeks.
“Herriot’s healthcare assistants were so lovely and caring. They were just wonderful and it was an absolute blessing to receive their support.
“They came in twice a day which also made Mum’s life so much easier as she didn’t have to worry about lifting him and could simply enjoy the time with him.
“Dad’s last Christmas was really special- and especially because he could be at home in familiar surroundings. I remember our family going upstairs to his art studio where his bed was to be with him and include him in the celebrations. Even when we were downstairs, he could hear us being raucous!
“There will always be that gratitude to Herriot Hospice Homecare as we really appreciated everything they did for Dad. Their care and support was very valuable.”
