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Christmas can be an especially hard time of year for people with terminal illnesses, but palliative carers go above and beyond to make it extra special
Fulfilling people’s final Christmas wishes is one of the most rewarding parts of being an end-of-life carer, palliative nurses tell The Mirror.
Caring for somebody on their deathbed can be incredibly difficult and emotional, but it’s a hugely important role that the healthcare staff at Sue Ryder know only too well. The nationwide charity supports people approaching the end of their lives and those living with grief to access the vital support they need.
During the festive period, their jobs can be even more challenging as patients feel apprehensive about spending their last Christmas with family and friends. To share the reality of being an end-of-life carer at this time of year, we spoke to the charity’s staff about their biggest challenges and memorable moments…
Ward manager Sophie Brew, 35, told The Mirror: “Christmas can be a difficult time of year in the hospice as patients are often fearful or aware that this could be their last one. It can bring out a lot of emotions and sadness in both patients and their families as they reflect on all of the happy times they have shared.”
Sophie explained that Christmas in the hospice is tailored to each individual family, and staff go “above and beyond” to respect their final wishes. “We provide gifts for all our patients, Christmas lunch for visitors, and support families in creating everlasting memories with their loved ones,” she said.
“Each patient is gifted a small Christmas tree for their rooms throughout December and families often like to take these trees home and plant them in memory of their loved ones.” Sophie explained that some patients have personal requests that staff members try their hardest to fulfil.
“One patient desperately wanted to gift their child a PlayStation 5 but was unable to go shopping, so the hospice fundraising team was able to source one,” she recalled. “The staff worked hard to make sure the patient could go home on Christmas Eve to watch their child open the gift and see the joy in person.”
Sophie explained that it’s really common for patients to request to spend their last Christmas Day at home with family and friends. But if they do have to spend it in the hospice, the staff make sure it is extra special. “Every year on Christmas Day, staff, patients and visitors sit together at large tables on the ward to enjoy lunch,” Sophie said.
“We often share stories of previous Christmases and childhood memories. It also means our patients get to spend quality time with their families and friends without worrying who will do the washing up,” she continued. “Where possible, though, we go out of our way to ensure patients get to spend Christmas in their own homes.”
Clinical lead Fern Gowler has worked at Sue Ryder for 15 years and feels “honoured” to have supported patients through their final Christmases. Fern, 38, shared: “One patient requested their room be decorated with Christmas lights and a tree a month early, as she was fearful she wouldn’t get to enjoy the experience with her family.
“Our staff went above and beyond to create a Christmas haven for the patient and their family, even serving them Christmas lunch every weekend.” Fern added: “We work together to make this time of year a truly special and meaningful experience for everyone.”
Marnie Cunningham, a healthcare assistant, said the hospice can be a “very magical place” at Christmas. “Last Christmas morning, we had the Salvation Army visit with a brass band to play festive carols. Patients and visitors gathered round with staff to share the magic of Christmas together,” she said.
Help ensure people don’t die feeling alone and in pain at Christmas. Right now, and all through Christmas, Sue Ryder’s nurses and community teams are providing support and palliative care for patients. For more information and to donate now visit Sue Ryder’s website.
