Marc’s story

Looking to the future

I’ve started thinking about my future care as I’m aware end-of-life care in the hospice isn’t guaranteed. Many people want to be cared for at home but others, like me, would prefer to be at the hospice. However, the stark reality is there might not be a hospice bed available when my time comes.

That scares me as I don’t want to die at home in the bed Perry and I share. I know that would be traumatic for him and it’s been such a relief to discuss this fear with my nurse and Perry.

The specialist care at the hospice is amazing – everything is so calm. Patients are treated as individuals and that’s what you want at the end of life. There’s a real sense of community – from the receptionists to the doctors and nurses.

This essential care can only be provided thanks to the support amazing people like you – because there isn’t enough funding from the government.

Before my diagnosis I was fit and healthy and I never thought cancer would happen to me. It’s a sobering thought, but one day it might be you or someone you love that needs hospice care, and I want St Barnabas House to be here for everyone who needs them.

The hospice is here for me

Six years on from my original diagnosis, my cancer is growing again and it’s growing fast. The last few months have been truly awful with pain from my cancer, treatments or infections. I’ve had a sinus infection for eight weeks now – the constant headaches are unbearable.

My symptoms are only getting worse – as we approach the festive season, I desperately want more time with Perry. I’m getting really frightened and it’s terrible watching the people I love as they prepare for Christmas knowing I’m scared.

The hospice are still here for me. I can call them and the community team will give me support and advice, and come to see me if I need them. I have a compromised immune system, so hospital isn’t the best place for me. The hospice has done everything they can to keep me safe.