Mark, from Great Harwood, never expected that one day he would rely on the support of East Lancashire Hospice.
A former ward clerk at Blackburn Hospital, Mark was used to fast-paced 12-hour shifts and a life of service within the NHS. But everything changed when he was diagnosed with Stage 4 Metastatic Prostate Cancer.
After being given just three months to live, Mark was referred to the Inpatient Unit at East Lancashire Hospice, where he spent six months. During that time, he received round-the-clock care and rehabilitation, eventually returning home with support from the Hospice at Home team.
“The Hospice at Home team provided so much more than physical support; I don’t think I’d be here without them,” Mark shared.
The team visited twice a week, their help extending far beyond expectations.
The team supported his emotional well-being, taking him out to Memorial Park in Great Harwood to enjoy the fresh air and provide a sense of freedom.
“Going from fast-paced NHS shifts to a quiet home was a huge adjustment; that human contact from the Hospice at Home team was what kept me going,” Mark explained.
As his strength returned, Mark was referred to the CaST (Creative and Support Therapies) department. Initially hesitant, he eventually joined the creative workshops and found a new lease of life.
“Meeting other patients was honestly a tonic. I’ve made close friends, and now some of us even volunteer to deliver meals in the community. Being creative and setting yourself a challenge gives you purpose and keeps your imagination alive,” he shared.
Mark regularly uses the Hospice services and has more recently been referred to the Complementary Therapy department. Having struggled with chronic insomnia, Reiki, a therapy used by the Complementary Therapy team, has allowed him to relax deeply enough to enjoy a full night’s sleep. For Mark, this wasn’t just about rest; it was vital for supporting his mental wellbeing.
Mark has utilised the services provided by East Lancashire Hospice still further, receiving support from the Counselling team.
“The counselling sessions have helped me come to terms with my new life. I know how expensive private therapy can be, so being able to access counselling at the Hospice, for free, when I needed it most, meant everything,” said Mark.
Looking back at his experience with East Lancashire Hospice, Mark shares, “All I can say to summarise is thank God for East Lancashire Hospice.”
If you would like to find out more about East Lancashire Hospice, or any of the services highlighted in Mark’s story, please visit: https://eastlancshospice.org.uk/our-care
