A Patient’s Story

‘Incredible kindness abounds here’

Nobody chooses to go to the hospice and I never thought I would go there.

Going through the doors on that first afternoon was very emotional and very difficult.

The place draws you in and the warmth and care, when you are at your most vulnerable, goes well beyond job and profession.

The experience left me with a very different emotion when the time came for me to go home.

There is a quiet calm, despite all that happens within the walls. Amid the soft sounds of squeaking shoes and warm greeting there are words of support, encouragement, understanding and empathy.

In the corridors, staff support and care for each other while unexpected bonds form between patients and visitors. 

There is a multidisciplinary team like no other here, working together in quiet determination to provide the best experience possible. 

Gently, very gently, slowly, very slowly, step-by-step, day by day, the work goes on.

Incredible kindness abounds here. Wonderful, selfless people work here.

Within these walls I have cried a lot, laughed (yes, laughed!), learned a lot, shared experiences, explored possibilities, dared to dream and hope.

The words “thank you” are such little words. They are heard frequently during the day but they are sincere and heartfelt. I owe a debt to all who helped me in Galway Hospice. 

It may have been the smallest gesture, a listening ear, a kind word or a gentle touch at a vulnerable moment but it made a difference.

For all of that, again, I say “thank you” and this thanks goes far beyond those Hospice walls.