It still feels like yesterday that I sat with my lovely mum as the Consultant delivered the worst news – there was no further treatment available for her cancer. My mum was so strong and planned everything, even choosing to spend her last days in her local hospice in Scarborough.
The care my mum received was incredible and as I said goodbye to her I vowed to do all I could to support my local Hospice, Overgate. It’s been over ten years since I first called to offer my support with their fundraising, starting with a bucket collection at Halifax Rugby Club. Since then I’ve done everything from dressing up as Santa to wading through Shibden Lake and I’ve loved every minute.
Whilst volunteering I enquired about helping patients on the Inpatient Unit and they advised that I gain a diploma in Health and Social Care at Level 3. I recently completed this course and whilst it was tough at times, knowing how proud my mum would be got me through. In September my dreams came true and I was appointed as a Nursing Assistant on the Inpatient Unit. It is such a privilege to play even a small part in making our patient’s last days as special as they possibly can be.
All I can say is, if you have a dream, you can do it.