“I’m leaving a completely different person”
Coming to the hospice can be a frightening time for families. For Amanda Parry, her family heard the word ‘hospice’ and it brought feelings of uncertainty, but the care and support she has received has completely changed their opinion.
A regular attendee at the Wellbeing Clinic, Amanda recently stayed at Nightingale House for respite and symptom management. Reflecting on her time here, she says the care she received has been transformational.
Amanda explains: “I came in one way, and I’m leaving like a completely different person. I came in quite a dark place, and every day I’ve learned something new.”
Amanda describes the kindness shown by staff and volunteers as making an enormous difference to both
her and her loved ones. From practical advice on managing symptoms and specialist equipment to emotional support and companionship, every interaction helped her feel more confident about returning home.
She said: “The care has just been so lovely from all the staff and volunteers. Life will be very different for me now, but they’ve given me the knowledge and the aids I can take home with me.”
The impact extended far beyond Amanda herself. Her family and friends were able to use the hospice’s welcoming family spaces, including the kitchen and outdoor areas, and experienced first-hand the warmth and support that Nightingale House provides.
Amanda says: “They completely changed their outlook on it. They’ve never seen anything like it. We’ve all taken something from the experience, and they won’t be scared if I need to use the hospice again.”
Amanda was also particularly impressed by the collaborative approach taken by the clinical team. With a number of doctors working together to understand and manage her complex symptoms, she felt listened to, supported and reassured.
She continued: “I didn’t realise how in-depth the doctors and nurses were. They all communicated together to help me go home with a package of support.”
Amanda is now helping to challenge misconceptions about hospice care beyond Nightingale House. After sharing her experience on Instagram, she received a message from someone who assumed that being admitted to a hospice was a negative step.
“I was able to tell her, ‘No, no, no. I came in one person and I’m leaving a completely different, positive person.’ It completely changed her opinion.”
Amanda’s story is a powerful reminder of the difference our staff and volunteers make every day. Through expert care, compassion, companionship and support, they help patients and families feel informed, empowered and hopeful, often at some of the most challenging times in their lives.