Paul and Sarah's Story
Paul was diagnosed with stage four Sarcoma in 2018 and was admitted to the Wigan & Leigh Hospice Inpatient Unit at the end of November 2024. Here, he tells his story, alongside his wife, Sarah and daughter, Evie.
Being introduced to the Hospice
“I was admitted to the hospice at the end of November because the tumour was pressing on my spine, creating pain down my left leg. The goal was to get my pain under control.
During my stay, I was allowed home for three nights over Christmas, but then things took a turn. I was admitted to hospital after losing feeling in my legs and it was confirmed I had developed spinal cord compression. I then had emergency radiotherapy at Christie’s to see if they could contain what movement I had.
Luckily enough, there was still room for me at the hospice, so I came back here after being in hospital for a couple of days. It was such a relief to be able to come back, as we were worried we would lose the bed.
We then thought I could possibly come home again, but I unfortunately developed an infection and have been in the Inpatient Unit ever since.”
Feeling at home
“When I first found out that I was going to be admitted to a hospice, I thought it was a place where people just go to die. However, when I arrived, I quickly realised how wrong that was.
The whole feel of the place is not what you expect. When we arrived, we were just left to settle in, unlike a hospital where you are bombarded with information. We soon learnt that there are not just nurses and doctors here to help you, there are volunteers, receptionists and many more people who are always on hand.
The staff are more like friends to me now, we have laughed and cried together. We know so much about them as individuals now too. The care is very personalised, the staff know exactly how to read you and your situation on any given day. We are always having a laugh and a giggle!”
Paul’s wife, Sarah said;
“It is a relief and a comfort to know Paul is being looked after when we are not there. The time we spend together here as a family is always so special.”
Special memories
Continuing his story, Paul said;
“My daughter Evie celebrated her sweet sixteen not long after I was admitted to the Inpatient Unit, and we asked if we could bring a special takeaway meal into my hospice room to celebrate. Within forty minutes, the patient lounge was being decorated with balloons, banners and presents.
Evie received a lovely present from the hospice team, and we could sit together, listen to music and celebrate the special occasion. We were blown away by how quickly this was done and by everyone’s generosity and kindness.
We also got treated to afternoon tea on Valentines Day – I am the most unromantic person but after mentioning an idea to do something special for Sarah on the day, the patient lounge was decorated, and we were able to have some alone time to celebrate the day.”
Above and beyond
“The care here is taken beyond the patient, the hospice has looked after our family too. We always have options here and can make our own decisions, whereas in other settings such as a hospital you are simply told what is happening.”
Sarah said;
“We are accessing their counselling and complementary therapy services which are just amazing. We aren’t forgotten about here and the little things such as being able to get a homecooked meal in the canteen when we have stayed late with Paul is brilliant.
We want to say thank you to everyone who has been involved in Paul’s care, and our care as a family. The staff have been truly amazing and we couldn’t ask for anything more. They have made a very difficult time in our lives, more bearable.”
Giving back
Paul said;
“You don’t understand how much this service is needed, until you need it yourself. I have always known that the hospice is here as we live in the Wigan borough. However, we didn’t know the full length of the service the hospice provides and how much support is needed for it to continue.
We have now spoken to our friends and family, and if we ever do any fundraising or sponsored events in the future then the proceeds will always be for the hospice. Everyone should have the opportunity to experience this level of care if and when they need it.”
Published March 2025