‘I hope I make my Daddy and the nurses proud.’

Jessica saw first-hand the care provided by our Hospice team, as her wonderful dad, Alan died there in May.

Alan had just turned 36, he had a brain tumour and had been in hospital for two weeks before moving to the Hospice. He spent five days at the Hospice surrounded by his wife, Julia and their three young daughters.

Alan’s wife Julia said “The Hospice was so lovely. It was calm, quiet and peaceful and it’s somewhere I’d want to be if I knew my life was coming to an end.

“Alan’s room was by the garden so the girls could run in and out of his room and the volunteers made us cups of tea and biscuits. The nurses gave the girls ice lollies and made them feel welcome, allowing them to make their own drinks, read books and draw while they were there.

“The nurses were all so kind and friendly and I spoke to some of them about everything. They took such good care of Alan – trimming his beard, washing him and changing his clothes so he was ready for his guests.”

Jessica saw the audition poster for Annie when visiting the Hospice and immediately asked to sign up to the show. She said “I’m super excited to be taking part in Annie. I know that the Hospice did everything they could to help Daddy feel comfortable. The staff there were nice and supportive to everyone.

“I’m upset my Daddy didn’t get a chance to watch me perform, but I’m doing this for him and the nurses. I hope I make them proud.”