Sadly, June died last year. Her positivity, joy and kindness remain an inspiration to everyone at Longfield. June, we remember you with the biggest smile. Thank you for your heartfelt support of our work.
It’s hard not to smile when June’s around. If she’s tired or in pain, you probably won’t know it. Brimming with fun and lively conversation, June is a much-loved member of the Longfield family and a regular visitor to our Wellbeing Centre in Minchinhampton, near Stroud. “She’s like the furniture around here!” quips Pete, ducking to avoid a comedy clip around the ears from the wife he adores.
June and Pete met at a TV studio in 1981, then again at a party months later. This time, June wrote her phone number on the back of a bus ticket and put it in Pete’s front pocket. The rest, as they say, is history. For over 40 years, the couple has been inseparable. It’s no surprise they’re coping with June’s lung cancer together. “It’s our diagnosis, our fight,” Pete explains. June’s diagnosis in November 2021 hit hard. She remembers Pete gasping when the oncologist quoted an average life expectancy of 12 months. “It was a massive shock and we had some dark days. But I’m not an ‘average’ sort of lady so I put that number aside and focused on living instead.”
Where does this incredible spirit come from? “I look at what’s good. I’ve had great medical care. I’ve got an amazing family. Cancer has brought Pete and I even closer.” She takes his hand. “Our time together is finite and we’re here to enjoy ourselves.” Like many of our visitors, June and Pete didn’t know what to expect when they first walked through Longfield’s doors. Pete describes an ‘oasis of calm.’ “The staff are wonderful, they really listen. Coming here is like walking into a big warm hug.” June nods in agreement. She likes the fact that Longfield concentrates on the person – not their condition. “Plus, you’re here for husbands, wives, anyone who is caring for that person too,” she says. “That’s what makes Longfield so special.”
The couple agree that taking part in wellbeing activities, including our Creative Space group, complementary therapies and counselling, have kept them focused on enjoying life. “Each activity is designed to help you cope and lift your spirits,” says June. “Longfield’s kept us smiling when things have felt heavy and difficult.”
Ruth, June and Pete’s daughter, has noticed a difference in her parents since their first visit to our Wellbeing Centre. “They’ve made new friends, had new experiences, and discovered this wonderful network of support,” she says. “Their social life is buzzing!” Ruth tells me about June’s ‘notbucketlist.’ “Mum doesn’t see the point in ticking off a list of adrenaline-fuelled activities,” she explains. “Instead, she finds meaning in simple pleasures: lunch in the garden, the sun on her face, the joy of connection.” “I’ve always been a positive person, although that positivity has been tested recently,” says June. “The trick is to shift your mindset. Ask yourself what you want from the life you have, not the one you imagined. Surround yourself with good people, have a giggle, have a cry, and celebrate each day.”
