"I saw many wonderful acts of love and compassion"

My Dad died at the Hospice in 1998. I was 32 years old with three young children at the time. Being my last parent alive, and an only child - it was a traumatic time for us both.

The staff at John Taylor Hospice were so kind to us both and my Dad felt reassured that not only was he being cared for, but that I was as well. They controlled his pain well - both physically and emotionally. They turned a terribly sad and scary time for me into something that was sprinkled heavily with moments of love and humour.

I know it may sound cliche but John Taylor Hospice felt like a magical place, they turned the end of my Dad's life into something so precious, it was tangible. My Dad was a private and proud man - but he was happy to join in, with the Hospice's activities and accept their help. I saw a different side to him, which complimented his many qualities.

He wanted to die at the Hospice and went on that journey to join my mother surrounded by love and within the sights of that wonderful garden. We dont get a choice often, where we die or how - but I too would want to be there.

I saw many wonderful acts of love and compassion at the Hospice and couldnt relay them all. All I would say is thank you from the bottom of my heart for looking after my Dad, and for looking after me in the months after his death. Bless you all