Mark's Story

When Mark was referred to Thames Hospice, his family were in crisis. He had advanced cancer which had been diagnosed late, he had been in hospital for 14 days suffering with severe symptoms, including pain and difficulty eating. There was real risk he would not get home to his loved ones.

Thanks to our enhanced Hospice at Home service, as soon as Mark was referred to us we were able to arrange a rapid discharge from hospital. All the equipment to enable Mark to be cared for at home was put in place by our team, including a syringe driver, to administer pain relief safely and consistently, and a specialist hospital bed. Back home he quickly received his first visit from Doctor Patrick and our Clinical Specialist, James. A treatment plan was set up to help get Mark’s symptoms under control, whilst keeping him comfortable at home with his family.

Mark received daily visits from James and three visits from our care assistants each day, to help with personal care such as washing and checking dressings. Dr Patrick visited Mark regularly, monitoring and treating his symptoms and adjusting his care where necessary. The Hospice at Home team were able to help Mark** keep his pain and nausea under control. This meant Tom and Jennifer were able to be with Mark at home, and Mark could be closer to being himself. Without our doctor-led care at home his discharge from hospital would not have been possible. Mark’s family were incredibly grateful for the team’s help, continuing to be supported by the Counselling and Bereavement Team.

** Mark’s story is that of a real patient, but his name and details of his story have been changed to protect his family’s privacy.