Laura and Meryl’s Story – Day Hospice

Day Hospice gives people with a life-limiting illness access to a wide range of services. Among the many people who access care here are two wonderful women, Laura and Meryl*, who have generously agreed to share their stories with us.

Laura grew up in the countryside, however she moved into the local area five years ago and her sister lives close by. Laura formed an earlier connection with the Hospice as her sister’s husband died here a few years ago. She was later referred to St Joseph’s Hospice by her GP.

Originally from Camden, Meryl now lives just around the corner from St Joseph’s, making it very convenient for her to access the Day Hospice. After her most recent cancer diagnosis 18 months ago, Meryl called St Joseph’s Hospice to enquire about any daytime activities that were available. She was then informed about Day Hospice and was quickly placed on the list to attend sessions. Day Hospice patients come into the Hospice one day a week for 12 weeks to spend the day with other people who are in a similar situation.

Both women speak very positively about their time at Day Hospice. For Laura, the complementary therapies are particularly helpful. She receives weekly acupuncture for pain relief, participates in therapeutic touch sessions, and has access to a gym where she works with a physiotherapist. The Day Hospice staff also monitor her vital signs, making it easier for her to keep track of her health compared to traditional doctors visits.

Laura says: “When I came here, it wasn’t doom and gloom; it was exactly what I needed. The Day Hospice is a positive environment, and it greatly benefits my mental health.”

Meryl, an acupuncturist by trade, also enjoys the complementary therapies, including acupuncture. Beyond the treatments and activities, both women value the sense of community at the Day Hospice.

“I like the friendships I’ve made here. It’s nice meeting people who didn’t know me before my diagnosis. People often don’t know how to interact with someone with terminal cancer , but here, I’m with a group of people who have only known me since my illness. There’s no judgment, we are all here for similar reasons. It feels good to be part of a group, and we have a laugh. It’s nice to see the same people each week and be out for the day.”

Thank you to Laura and Meryl for taking the time to share their experiences.

Laura and Meryl’s stories also feature in the Summer 2024 edition of our Life Magazine.

*Names have been changed.