An open door: Amie's story

When Amie’s father, Deryck came to Hospice in the Weald for care and support as an outpatient in 2023, she says a ‘door opened’ for the whole family. Here, Amie reflects on how the Hospice helped Deryck continue to enjoy what was most important to him before his death in February 2024, and how it remains a special place of comfort for Amie and her mum.

“My dad completely adored music. He taught himself how to play guitar at 11 years old. I don’t think his parents, with four boys, could afford the lessons, so he got himself a guitar with pocket money, and that was it. He taught himself how to play. Throughout his whole life, he was either in a band or doing something musical, so being able to join the music sessions at the Hospice was so special. During the sessions, he played Walking on Sunshine – he loved the lyrics and felt it brought joy and brightened everyone’s day.

“He and Mum were married for 35 years. They were a credit to each other. I think you take it for granted that they’re just growing old together. With his diagnosis, you could see how much they loved each other.

“Mum had counselling, and I came to the Hospice too. I think it’s hard being the partner or the wife, or husband. You’re not the one going through it, but you need to know how to cope with it. For Mum, coming to the Hospice just opened a door for her that never closed, even though Dad’s no longer with us. She volunteers at the Hospice now.

“I got married this time last year, and we made sure Dad was there in spirit. We had Dad’s guitar, and a buttonhole for it, at the top table. And we came down the aisle to Walking on Sunshine.”