Wendy's story

When my mum died, St Wilfrid's gave my family the gift of being able to breath together and hold each other as our little family unit changed shape. Wendy tells us why she will be joining us for Lights of Love this year.

She was only at the hospice for one whole day, but Mum was peaceful and comfortable. Drifting in and out of sleep, she told me she was going for a lovely walk on the Downs. Although I wasnt with her when she died early the following morning, I knew she was being cared for in the best possible way, with love, dignity and gentle respect.

After Mum died, it took me a long time to realise I was no longer singing, something we had both loved. I pushed myself to join a choir, and last December, we sang at the hospice's Lights of Love celebration. It was the first time I had felt able to go back, and it was very emotional, but I felt close to Mum, and the enormously powerful energy of love in the building was palpable.

– Wendy Stanley

Inspired by Wendy's Story? Share yours with us at individualgiving@stwhospice.org