Hospice News

Patient & Carer Stories

Here's Ted's story told by his daughter Angela...

Angela and Debbie's dad, Edward (also known as Ted) was diagnosed with lung cancer in July 2022. Whilst Debbie lived close by, Angela lived in the Midlands, so she would travel to Bristol to live with Ted and support Debbie with care responsibilities. It was a tough time for the family. For the first few weeks, Angela was caring for her dad throughout the day and working her day job through the night.

Ted was then referred to St Peter's Hospice, and the family were supported by the Hospice at Home team. The were able to provide the specialist care Ted needed, giving Angela and Debbie reassurance and support during an overwhelming time. Getting support through the day, meant that Angela didn't need to work through the night and could catch up on work whilst the Palliative Care Support Workers cared for Ted. "The nights were definitely the hardest," said Angela. "But we'd hold hands and talk about the adventures we used to have together."

Debbie, Angela and Ted

Before getting support from St Peter's, Angela said she would feel guilty for wanting to pop out for a quick walk to get some fresh air and clear her head, but thanks to the support workers, she was able to do this. It was also an opportunity for Debbie to return home for a few hours. She said she still felt guilty leaving the house but knew how important it was for them both to have that time to help them function properly.

The family also had support from a night support worker, who was able to be with Ted during the night, giving Angela and Debbie the chance to catch up on some much-needed sleep. Angela recalls the second time the night support worker was there through the night, she said: "Debbie and I heard Dad in the night, and we actually had to stop ourselves from going in to check on him because we weren't used to having that support in the night. It meant we could both go back to sleep knowing he was being cared for."

Sadly, Ted passed away just seven weeks after his diagnosis. Angela said: "Looking back, whilst it was such a dark time, I don't remember the not so nice moments, it's the special memories I think of. At the end of the day, he was warm and safe and with the people who loved him and that's what is important. We're just so happy we could be there for him, because he's always been there for us. The St Peter's team were our lifeline during this time, and they were fundamentally at the heart of us being able to keep Dad at home, where he wanted to be - we'll forever be grateful."

Angela, Debbie and family have since taken on many fundraising challenges for the Hospice and have a Tribute Fund set up - every Birthday, anniversary, Father's Day and Christmas, they'll both write a message to him and donate to St Peter's so they can continue to support families like theirs.

Read more about our Hospice at Home care