Victoria Rawnsley from Great Barr is on her third visit to John Taylor Hospice after meeting the In-Patient Unit team for the first time in January. The 45-year-old had been feeling really low and wasn’t sure what to expect. By the time she went home, Victoria said her mood had lifted considerably and she felt more confident.
“The staff were brilliant, they couldn’t do enough for me,” said Victoria, who was diagnosed with breast cancer for the second time last year.
"I came out feeling ten feet taller." The hospice’s In-Patient Unit is designed to be a home from home. Regular and one-off breaks are for people who, like Victoria, are over 18 and have a palliative diagnosis. Breaks, known as respite care, can be planned in advance and throughout the year.
“When I’m here, they make me feel like a queen,” said Victoria. “Whatever I need, whenever I need it, nothing is too much trouble.” John Taylor offers up to eight weeks of respite per year with at least six weeks between each stay.
“I look forward to coming so much. It’s my refuge, where I find peace,” said Victoria. Victoria is hoping to marry her partner Barry later this year. She explained how they both benefit from the free respite care service offered by John Taylor Hospice.
“It’s a nice break for me,” she added. “And it’s a break for him, too.” Staff nurse Wendy Simmons said: “It’s always a pleasure to welcome Victoria back to John Taylor Hospice. It’s her time to be pampered and experience specialist care 24 hours a day.
“While she’s here, Victoria will also have the opportunity to talk to our nurses, doctors and other specialists about how she’s feeling, what works and what could be improved or changed.”
Head of community investment Marcus Cox said: “It costs £465 to provide one day of respite care to someone like Victoria. All donations – big and small – help to give life back to those in need.”
The John Taylor Hospice team keeps regular givers informed on how their gifts are being spent through updates by email, post or online. Marcus added:
By investing in John Taylor Hospice regularly, local people can ‘Taylor-make’ a difference, now and in the future.
“It's quick and easy to set up a direct debit payment to John Taylor Hospice. Visit https://www.johntaylorhospice.org.uk/get-involved/donate/regular-giving.”
For more information about respite care at John Taylor Hospice, consult directly with your GP, district nurse or a member of the John Taylor Hospice team.
