For people like Violet, accessing
the services at St Ann's Hospice has helped to control her symptoms, whilst allowing her to enjoy the time that she has left
with her family.

Violet's story

"I was only 45 when I was diagnosed with cancer of the pelvis in 2001 and my family and I were shattered by the news.

In December 2003 my Doctor referred me to St Ann's Hospice to attend Day Therapy sessions and in January this year I was admitted as an Inpatient for pain control. At first I didn't know what to expect and was nervous about meeting people, but now I really look forward to seeing people that I have built up friendships with over the past few months.

The staff immediately put me at my ease and made me feel comfortable and safe. The nurses will do anything for you at any time and I feel like I've developed close relationships with them. If I need anything they are never too busy to have a chat or cheer you up.

The care that I have received has been amazing. It's not just about what they can do for you physically, but how they can help emotionally too. They even suggested that I could try going home for a weekend to have a bit of a break, which I've now done several times.

It's nice to have a change and I treasure the time that I can spend with my family at home and see my children and grandson Luke, who was born in October last year.

I feel lucky that the services at St Ann's Hospice have been available for me and for my family as well. I feel that they will be well supported and cared for. I know that I may not have long, but I'm making the most of the time that I have left with my family and everyone at St Ann's Hospice has helped me to do that. "

Violet died peacefully at St Ann's Hospice on 13th May 2004
and her family wished us to use her story