The Conversation: Dying Matters' Blog

After 55 years of marriage, our world was shattered when my husband, Melvin, was diagnosed with Mesothilioma.

We were desperately unhappy, not knowing how to cope. However, following the intervention of our GP, Melvin was admitted to St. David’s Hospice in Llandudno, Wales, where all his medications were sorted. But more than that, we were made so welcome and every step and every symptom was explained.

After a fortnight Melvin returned home and I cannot praise too highly or give adequate thanks to the Palliative Care team: consultants, GPs, nurses - including Macmillan, Marie Curie and District - OTs, physios, social workers, the oxygen technician and the local pharmacist. They all deserve special mention. Every day someone would call in and the worry for me of being a carer was made so much easier to bear. Because of the team, Melvin got his wish to die peacefully at home, without pain and with us beside him.

Most of all, I will remember the respect he received, even after his death.

Brenda and Melvin are pictured at St David's on their 55th wedding anniversary. Staff arranged a surprise party, complete with (non-alcoholic!) wine, cake and flowers.

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St David's Hospice