THIS Easter, a family has shared their heartfelt thanks to St Clare Hospice, whose compassionate care helped bring comfort, dignity and peace at one of the most difficult moments they have ever faced.

When Alan Arthy prepared to return home from hospital distressed, exhausted and longing for the familiar, it was the St Clare Hospice team who made the transition feel calm, seamless and supported.

Having been diagnosed with a brain tumour last year, Alan had recently been admitted to hospital following a fall. But when it came time for him to be discharged home, what could have been an overwhelming experience instead became manageable, thanks to the coordinated and compassionate care provided by the Hospice.

Working closely with hospital staff, district nurses, carers and the GP surgery, they ensured everything was in place before Alan even reached the front door. The Hospice at Home team brought structure and reassurance each day, while the hospice nurses remained just a phone call away – ready to provide guidance, comfort and practical support whenever it was needed.

For Alan’s wife Maureen, that level of wraparound care made all the difference. “I don’t know where we’d be without St Clare,” she said. “They’ve been amazing, so genuine, compassionate and kind. The hospice is special and it doesn’t bear thinking about life without them.”

Alan died peacefully at home on Saturday, March 28, with Maureen by his side, holding his hand.

Maureen said she knew Alan would have wanted to thank everyone at the Hospice, so to express their gratitude from the whole family, she gifted Easter eggs to all the staff who supported them. A small gesture, she said, for the extraordinary care, dignity and humanity they showed throughout Alan’s final days.

By sharing Alan’s story this Easter, Maureen hopes to highlight the vital role St Clare Hospice plays in supporting local families, ensuring no-one has to face the end of life without compassion, comfort and care.

St Clare Hospice continues to rely on the generosity of the community to provide its services, offering specialist care and support to patients and families when they need it most.