Louise's Story

Alongside family members, Louise and Graham welcomed Thames Hospice colleagues who have been closely involved in her care and support. Zara, from the Hospice’s Counselling team, arranged a beautiful cake and floral displays for the occasion. The reception was full of flowers, holiday photographs and balloons kindly organised by Jess from the Outpatient Services team.

“It was such an incredible, special day,” Louise says. “And it was truly thanks to the Hospice and the support and kindness they’ve provided. Their kindness really went beyond expectations. It meant so much to us because the people who attended are just so important to us and it’s a day that will be remembered forever.”

Thames Hospice’s role in supporting Louise goes way beyond wedding planning and hosting, as Louise explains.

“I’ll never forget the first day when Nathan from the Hospice at Home team arrived at my front door. I instantly connected well with him. That’s when I was introduced to pain management and I have to say in all honesty that without the support of the Hospice I don’t think I would be here now because it has been quite a battle – particularly when trying to manage my treatment plan, pain management and work activities."

“The support Thames Hospice provides is what’s been instrumental when I’ve had a really big challenge with my pain. They’ve given me excellent support and advice, which also involved making regular contact with my GP, to ensure appropriate pain management medication was prescribed.”

Since Louise’s recent surgery left her using a stoma, she’s placed her faith in the team to help her perform a function she’d lost the confidence to do on her own.

“I hadn’t taken the risk because I was worried the stoma might fall out. Then they made the offer of bathing here at the Hospice. They gave me a bath, and it was heaven. All the Hospice staff members are remarkable in what they do each day with great passion, empathy and sensitivity to any personal situation. Their natural, reassuring approach means I always feel at ease and cared for.”

Louise, like many people, has found the whole hospice experience a complete eye-opener and helped build her confidence to continue to live life to the full.

“I didn’t know what to expect at all. But as soon as I walked through the door for my first session, I was made to feel good where I was able to quickly remind myself of still having a sense of value in life.

“It’s amazing how meeting other people and sharing one’s experiences can help because it makes you realise, you’re not the only one out there and it gives you the motivation to be there for each other. I’d say with great confidence Thames Hospice really is unique and special. Coming here for a couple of hours each week gives me the boost and sense of purpose in life I need.”

As well as benefitting from meeting other patients, Louise has accessed a wide range of the complementary therapies on offer at Thames Hospice, including Reiki, physiotherapy and dietary advice, and enjoys meeting friends and work colleagues in the café where she says the food is ’10 out of 10’.

With Thames Hospice at her side, Louise has been able to continue working for transformation technology facilities management company, Mitie.

“That's been a personal choice of mine, it's really helped with my sense of purpose in life where this has allowed me to continue to be Louise. I’m very fortunate Mitie have been exceptionally supportive and for me, without their support and flexibility, I wouldn't be where I am today nor be able to do what I do today."

“Of course, it does impact the quality of life, but I decided I wasn’t going to let this get to me and I would continue as normal.”

Louise is now undergoing another course of 12 cycles of chemotherapy where she is fully aware that the next six months will be tough. She’s prepared for the challenge though, safe in the knowledge that she has Graham, Mitie and Thames Hospice supporting her very step of the way.

“I feel very fortunate to be a part of Thames Hospice because I can see and have experienced the difference, and without their support I would be totally lost. I feel so privileged and fortunate to have the opportunity to be with many tremendous people at Thames Hospice where their expertise and approach towards everything they do is exemplary.”