Supporting Hospice Care for Generations to Come
At St Mary’s Hospice, we are here for patients and families at some of the most challenging times in their lives. Much of the care we provide, free of charge, is only possible thanks to the generosity of our supporters, including those who choose to leave a gift in their Will.
Legacy gifts play a vital role in securing the future of hospice care in our community. They allow us to plan ahead, invest in our services, and ensure compassionate care is available not just today, but for generations to come.
That’s why we’ve working with Hospice UK and other Hospices to raise awareness about leaving a gift in your will.
Fiona and Peter’s Story: A Lasting Legacy of Kindness
We would like to share one story that shows the lasting impact of that generosity.
On 5 July 2024, Fiona was diagnosed with motor neurone disease. Just weeks later, she was admitted to our In-Patient Unit. Her husband, Peter, of 52 years, recalls how a young nurse stayed by his side as Fiona passed away peacefully on 7 August offering comfort and kindness at the moment he needed it most.
But our care did not end there.
After Fiona’s death, our team continued to support Peter through his grief. From a simple, unhurried conversation with a staff member who took the time to truly listen, to ongoing complementary therapy sessions at our Barrow Hub, St Mary’s remained by his side.
Throughout their lives, Fiona and Peter had supported the hospice in small but meaningful ways — playing the lottery, donating furniture, giving what they could. Fiona’s final act of kindness was to leave a gift in her Will to St Mary’s Hospice.
Her legacy gift reflected the compassion she had experienced and ensured that other families would receive that same care in the future.
As Peter so simply puts it:
“Fiona and I never imagined we would need St Mary’s Hospice — but when we did, they were there for us, every step of the way.”
Why Gifts in Wills Matter
Hospice UK’s national campaign also aims to reassure people that leaving a gift in a Will doesn’t have to be complicated — and that providing for loved ones always comes first. Even a small percentage of an estate can make a profound and lasting difference.
If St Mary’s Hospice has touched your life, or if you believe in the care we provide, we hope you might consider including a gift in your Will, once your loved ones are provided for. It is a powerful way to ensure that families facing the most difficult days receive the support they so desperately need.
To find out more, please visit stmaryshospice.org.uk or speak in confidence with our team on 01229 580305. There is never any obligation — simply information, if and when the time is right for you.
And if this story resonates with you, we would be so grateful if you would consider sharing it with friends, family or colleagues. By helping us spread the word about the importance of gifts in Wills, you are helping secure the future of hospice care for our whole community.
Find out more information using the link below.
