Patients attending Day Hospice at Alice House Hospice are helping to challenge common misconceptions around hospice care, describing the service as a place of friendship, support and renewed confidence rather than fear or finality.
For many people, the word “hospice” is associated with end-of-life care, but patients living with cancer who attend the Hospice’s Day Hospice service say the experience has transformed their lives — helping them overcome loneliness, rebuild social connections and regain a sense of normality.
Dot said she became increasingly isolated after her diagnosis.
“I was getting more and more depressed,” she explained. “I don’t really speak to my family much and all my friends were still working.”
After being referred to Day Hospice by her specialist nurse, she said the service gave her a renewed sense of purpose and belonging.
“I absolutely love coming here,” she said, “You can talk to people who are in the same boat as you and that makes such a difference.”
Another patient, Fran, admitted she was initially frightened when hospice care was first suggested.
“The first thing I said was, ‘I’m not dying,’” she recalled.
However, after deciding to attend a session, she said her perception changed completely.
“It was the best thing I ever did,” she said, “When you come here, you’re not your illness anymore. You’re just a person.”
Patients attending Day Hospice take part in a range of activities designed to support wellbeing, including relaxation sessions, crafts, quizzes and social activities, alongside emotional and clinical support from staff.
Many say it is the companionship and understanding they value most.
“You become part of a family,” Dot said. “We all look after each other.”
Staff at Alice House Hospice say Day Hospice aims to provide holistic support for people living with life-limiting illnesses, helping patients remain active, connected and supported within their community.
For those unsure about attending, patients have a simple message.
“Just give it a try,” Fran said. “People think hospice means death, but this place is about living.”
To attend Day Hospice, a professional referral is required, to find out more, please click here.
