Providing care for individuals in their final days is a profoundly emotional and demanding role, a reality that nurses at the national charity Sue Ryder confront daily. During the festive season, this responsibility takes on an even deeper poignancy, as staff work tirelessly to grant last Christmas wishes and create lasting memories for patients and their loved ones.
The Emotional Weight of a Final Festive Season
Sophie Brew, a 36-year-old ward manager, explained that Christmas in the hospice is often charged with intense emotion. Patients are frequently aware that this may be their last Christmas, leading to feelings of fear and sadness as they and their families reflect on past celebrations. The dedicated team tailors the experience to each family, striving to go above and beyond to honour final requests and maintain dignity.
"We provide gifts for all our patients, Christmas lunch for visitors, and support families in creating everlasting memories with their loved ones," Sophie told The Mirror. A touching tradition involves giving each patient a small Christmas tree for their room in December, which families often later plant at home as a living memorial.
Going the Extra Mile to Fulfill Final Wishes
The staff's commitment to fulfilling personal requests is unwavering. Sophie recalled one poignant example where a patient desperately wanted to give their child a PlayStation 5 but was unable to shop. The hospice fundraising team sourced the console, and colleagues arranged for the patient to go home on Christmas Eve to witness their child's joy firsthand.
A common and heartfelt wish is to spend Christmas Day at home. The Sue Ryder team works diligently to make this possible whenever they can. For those who remain in the hospice, the day is made extra special. "Every year on Christmas Day, staff, patients and visitors sit together at large tables on the ward to enjoy lunch," Sophie described, noting it's a time for sharing cherished stories and allowing families quality time together without domestic worries.
Creating a Christmas Haven for Families
Fern Gowler, a 39-year-old clinical lead with over 15 years of service, spoke of the honour of supporting patients through their final Christmases. She shared a moving account of a patient who feared she wouldn't live to see the festivities. The patient asked for her room to be decorated with lights and a tree a month early.
"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 said. This collective effort ensures the season is meaningful for everyone involved.
Healthcare assistant Marnie Cunningham added that the hospice can transform into a "very magical place" during the holidays. Last year, the Salvation Army visited with a brass band on Christmas morning to play carols, bringing patients, visitors, and staff together in a shared moment of festive spirit.
Throughout the Christmas period and beyond, Sue Ryder's nurses and community teams continue to provide essential palliative care, ensuring no one faces the end of their life alone or in pain. The charity relies on public support to deliver this vital service.
