Ray from Nailsworth explains how Longfield helped him cope when his wife was in the advanced stages of cancer.
“I met Lisa when I was 18, in the first few weeks of university. We were together for over 50 years. She was the emotional arty one and I was the planner and organiser. We made a great team.
When Lisa was diagnosed with terminal cancer, I didn’t think twice about caring for her at home. I took my wedding vows seriously – ‘in sickness and in health’.
As Lisa’s health deteriorated, we were referred to Longfield’s Hospice at Home team. The carers came twice, then three times a day. They even came at weekends, which I wasn’t expecting.
Every single carer made us feel special. We never felt like they were rushed or just doing a job. Lisa was expecting the care to be functional, but it was anything but functional. The carers became part of the family. They buoyed Lisa’s spirits and she always seemed a little brighter after their visits.
The carers took the time to talk to me and answer my questions. I felt I could ask them about anything that was bothering me. I cannot overstate how much I appreciated that. The care team also liaised with the district nurses and I felt like Lisa was a priority at all times – something we hadn’t experienced from our GP.
Longfield always said ‘get in touch when you need us’ even though we were having three care visits a day. They made me feel like they were always there, always ready to come and see us. It helped me feel less isolated and alone.
The day before Lisa died it snowed heavily. We live at the top of a steep hill in Nailsworth and the carers had to turn back. But they kept in contact by phone. The next day, I had a call to say they were trying again. They drove half way up the hill and walked the rest of the way. I’m grateful they did because Lisa died shortly after they arrived.
They rang our daughters for me so I didn’t have to break the news and they stayed with me for a long time – until just before my daughters arrived. Their support and kindness meant the world.”
