Lizzie’s Story

When Lizzie’s Dad was dying, Longfield’s Hospice at Home team was there to support the whole family.

“I moved back in with my parents to help care for Dad when he was ill. Watching someone you love deteriorate is hard – nothing prepares you. Mum and I were doing all of Dad’s care so when Longfield’s care team came in twice a day, morning and night, it was really helpful.

Mum struggled with seeing Dad so poorly and the carers were always there to speak to her and comfort her too. Longfield made everything that bit easier at such a hard time for our family.

We really appreciated that the carers learned about dad’s interests and they spent a lot of time talking to him about the things he loved – fast cars and motorbikes!

Longfield got to know Dad and that made the difference. It wasn’t like strangers coming in and doing his personal care because they had taken the time to get to know dad as a human being. This made it easier for us. We’d be downstairs and hear them chatting or having a giggle about something. It was such a relief to Mum and I to hear him sounding relaxed and happy.

On the day dad died, the Longfield carers were there. They laid dad out and we were so grateful for that kindness.

Mum is having weekly bereavement counselling sessions with Longfield, so we’re still being supported now.

Longfield means a lot to the whole family. That’s why I ran the 2025 London Marathon in aid of the charity.”

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