Lucy's story

“St Oswald’s Hospice is like our extended family.”

Nine-year-old, Lucy, has been coming to St Oswald’s Hospice for monthly short breaks for the past two years. She enjoys lots of activities and cuddles from the staff, as well as time with best friend, Sophia. 

Jill, Lucy’s mum, cannot speak highly enough of the support she, her husband and Lucy get from St Oswald’s Hospice. But she admits she was initially fearful when her daughter, who has complex medical needs due to an undiagnosed genetic condition, was offered the opportunity to stay overnight at our Children and Young Adults Service. 

Jill explained: 

“Hospice care was mentioned to me when Lucy was quite young, but I didn’t feel ready for her to go. Even though her best friend from school, Sophia, went and her mum said such good things.” 

“But when Lucy was around seven, it was discussed again. At that stage, my husband and I were really struggling. The pressure of looking after Lucy and managing all her health needs was taking a strain on us and we were exhausted. 

“We had carers who came to the house, but it never felt like we had space to breathe. 

“We decided it was in Lucy’s best interests for us to try St Oswald’s Hospice and begin getting her used to time away from the family home.” 

Jill, however, continued to have a lot of anxiety about taking such a big step. 

She explained: 

“I felt so guilty that I was asking for help. I thought people would think I couldn’t manage Lucy’s care. 

“I was also terrified of letting her sleep somewhere without me, which she’d never done before. And allowing people to look after her who she didn’t know.” 

Jill explained that the staff at St Oswald’s Hospice understood the fears she had. 

“The staff were great and so welcoming. It was a very gradual process. On Lucy’s first visits, we stayed with her. We’d literally all pack our bags and go stay at the hospice.” 

Two years on and Lucy now stays two nights a month, allowing time for mum and dad to get some respite and quality time together, knowing their daughter is in good hands. 

Jill continued: 

“Lucy gets so excited when she knows she’s going to St Oswald’s Hospice. She loves all the staff and spending time with her friends. 

“As soon as I take Lucy to her bedroom at the hospice, and she knows she’s staying, she tells me using her eye gazer that she’s really happy. 

“The staff know her so well and spoil her rotten. If she’s upset at night, they’ll stay and cuddle her. 

“Her short breaks are the only time she’s away from me really, so it’s very reassuring to know that the staff are caring for her so well.”