Gail Smart is one of our healthcare assistants travelling across Hambleton and Richmondshire. After 43 years working with the army, Gail enjoys now caring for people in the place they call home. She says:
“I started with Herriot after helping to care for a neighbour in their own home. Towards the end of his life, the Herriot team were there to support. I realised then that I would love to be part of such a kind and professional team.
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“Our team are humbled to receive many compliments from our clients and their families. It is a privilege to be welcomed into their home to help keep them safe and comfortable. It is so fulfilling to be able to support not just the individual, but also the wider family who are by their side.
“Being able to provide individuals with the end-of-life care that they truly deserve and need, and helping them to be as comfortable as possible, makes my job so meaningful. I like to connect with people on topics other than just their illness. Talking about their life and loves and getting to know more about them as an individual, often brings a smile to their face.
“Individuals and their loved ones come to know my colleagues and I as familiar faces visiting their home. This can be a comfort as they navigate the often difficult and complex issues that a terminal illness brings. Through our care, support, and reassurance we can help people fulfil their last wishes to be in the comfort of their own home with those they love by their side.
For the past few years, we have held our annual Herriot Hospice Homecare Light up a Life events. This year we welcome you to join us in remembering your loved ones, sharing with us your special moments and in doing so, donating to Herriot Hospice and making a difference in your loved one’s name.
I invite you to dedicate a light and share your special memories by either completing the form enclosed or online via our virtual Christmas tree at visufund.com/herriot-hospice-light-up-a-life-2023. There, you can personalise your light with a picture and special message. If you prefer, please call our Supporter Care team on 01609 777 413 and they will be able to help you with your donation.
By joining us and our community in donating to Light up a Life to remember your special moments, you will be helping me, and my amazing colleagues to be there for more people at the end of their lives this Christmas. Together, we can make sure no one is left alone when they need our care most. Everyone deserves to be cared for when they are facing terminal illness and bereavement, but it is only with the generosity of our community’s donations that we can make sure more people receive our care.
A donation of £42.86 could enable me to travel to around our community for a weekend of home visits over the festive season, ensuring our patients can spend Christmas at home with the people and things they love, creating lasting memories together.
Thank you so much for your continued support in remembering your loved ones, and we look forward to welcoming you to one of our services this December and sharing with your special memories.
