Beth's Story: staying positive in this journey

“I’m Bethany Stichbury, I’m 27 and I was born and raised in Tonbridge. I’m sharing my story here because I’m now under the care of the Hospice.

My biggest achievement is my daughter, obviously. She is my proudest achievement. The best thing I have ever, ever done is become a mum. Nothing will ever top being Willow’s mum. We have the typical mother-daughter relationship. She is a double of me. Everyone says it wherever we go! She’s completely my mini-me. She’s me personality-wise through and through too, and she’s just amazing. We have such a wonderful relationship; we have so much fun together, we have funny little inside jokes and little songs that we sing. I just think the absolute world of her.”

“We both built a bear together and the intention was to put our voices in them. I have a Highland cow, called Henry. If I press his hoof, I can hear Willow’s voice say, “Love you, Mummy.” She also picked his jumper, which I think is absolutely hilarious. He comes with me everywhere. So, I’ve always got Willow with me regardless.

Part of me was kind of relieved that all my symptoms meant something. I thought it was something treatable, but later I found out that wasn’t the case; my bowel cancer was too advanced. It’s all been a mix of emotions, but I’ve always been so positive in this journey. I wasn’t crying or anything like that; I was very calm, and I wanted to know what the next step was. I’ve always maintained that attitude throughout this journey because I think it’s the only way you can get through it, really.”

Hospice care isn’t just about end-of-life care. We provide care and support for patients as well as their families from the point of diagnosis. Helping people to come to terms with their illness and supporting them to get symptoms under control so that the important things can be the main focus. Spending time with family, enjoying those special moments. To find out more about what we offer explore our services.

Beth has been accessing in-patient care whilst under the care of Hospice in the Weald. But, like she describes, it has been for symptom control, not end-of-life care. She has spent much of her time here making memories with the people she loves. With support from Julie in our Living Well team, Beth and her daughter have created beautiful hand casts and recorded comforting messages, carefully tucked inside cuddly toys. These are moments they will treasure forever.