How Jo, Jonquil and Yvonne honoured their friend’s last wish.
Gill was a teacher with a passion for history and dance. Stylish and academic, she lived with her husband Terry a deep sea diver – and they travelled the world with his job. In her early 30s, Gill developed rheumatoid arthritis. Over the years, as her condition worsened, Gill had numerous operations. “She hated being in hospital,” remembers Jo.
Jo, her sister Jonquil, and their friend, Yvonne, live in Painswick and were Gill’s neighbours. Always close, they formed a stronger bond after Terry died in 2001. “We became a bit like family to Gill,” says Jonquil.
Sadly, in 2011, Gill was diagnosed with Lewy Body Dementia and Parkinson’s disease. She now needed 24-hour support from a live-in carer.
Jo, Jonquil and Yvonne began a weekly rota of visits “to remind Gill she was still loved and valued,” says Yvonne.
Last year, Gill’s health declined further, and she was admitted to hospital. Although stable after a day or two, the hospital would not discharge Gill until additional support was in place.
The friends spent hours calling care agencies, social services, anyone who would listen. But three weeks on, Gill was still in hospital. “She was increasingly distressed,” says Jonquil. “Gill wanted to die at home – she’d always been clear about that – and we’d promised to honour that wish. But we couldn’t find a way to get her home.”
Then some good news. The hospital referred Gill to Longfield’s Hospice at Home service. Our specialist nurses responded quickly with an assessment before offering to care for Gill. “She was discharged the next day,” says Jonquil.
For the last ten days of her life, Longfield helped care for Gill in the comfort of her own home. We also supported Gill’s live-in carer, sharing our expert knowledge and skills to ensure she felt confident in her role. “Those last days were a blessing,” says Jo. “Gill was treated with such dignity and respect. Her pain was managed, and she was calm and peaceful.” Jonquil nods in agreement. “We kept our promise to Gill, thanks to Longfield. You might be a small charity, but the impact you have is immense.”
