Alan Wilkinson – a husband’s story
“The biggest difference the hospice made to Linda and me was knowing she was as comfortable as possible.
“We knew she was dying, but everything was done to make sure she was cared for with kindness and dignity,” explained Alan Wilkinson, whose wife Linda received support from St Elizabeth Hospice before her death, aged 73, in April 2025.
Annually, St Elizabeth Hospice cares for more than 4,000 patients and their families throughout East & Mid-Suffolk, Great Yarmouth and Waveney.
This care sees the independent Suffolk charity providing free services – whenever and wherever it is needed, whether at home, in the community or at the hospice – to those living with a progressive or life-limiting illness.
“Linda was an amazing woman. Perspicacious and pragmatic, people just loved Linda. Wherever she went she had a natural ability to put people at ease,” said Alan, who lives in Creeting St Mary.
“We met online in 2004, after my daughter persuaded me try online dating. We both had children from previous relationships and we just clicked immediately. Our relationship grew from there and we married in 2008.
“Over the years, Linda faced a number of health problems and underwent open heart surgery twice, as well as being diagnosed with four different types of cancer.
“Yet she adapted with remarkable strength and anyone who met her would never have known she was ill.
“In October 2024, she was diagnosed with a brain tumour and lung cancer. She had surgery at Addenbrooke’s Hospital to remove the tumour and went on to have chemotherapy, approaching each stage with calm determination.
“When she came to St Elizabeth Hospice, in March 2025, it felt like a breath of fresh air to us both. Linda had been feeling more and more distressed, especially after chemotherapy had knocked her for six.
“We knew we needed more support, so with support from Macmillan Cancer Support and their advice, we reached out to the hospice.
“Linda was very clear that she did not want to die at home or in hospital. We had a conversation with the hospice team on a Tuesday and by the Friday she was in the Inpatient Unit.
“She felt comfortable straight away. Linda had her own room, which meant our family and friends could visit, and I was able to stay overnight. The hospice team even brought in another bed so I could sleep beside her, which meant a great deal to both of us.
“I cannot explain how brilliant the St Elizabeth Hospice team are. You will never fully understand how special the hospice is until you come under their care. The love, kindness and compassion we received at the hospice was incredible.
“I lived at the hospice for the best part of five weeks, and it gave me the chance to see what happens every day. You see all the nurses, volunteers, consultants and cleaners, and the common thread is that each one genuinely cares. They take the time to chat, focus on the patient and their family.
“It was amazing to witness. We came to understand that what happens at the hospice is really special. Seeing the volunteers doing all that they do to help the staff and help create a warm, welcoming environment was just incredible.
“While the attention to detail from the staff was brilliant. They even took Linda out into the beautiful hospice garden in her bed so she could see the stunning daffodils.
“The team also supported me, which I am beyond grateful for. I have since attended many of the hospice’s volunteer-lead bereavement walking group, Walk On. Walk On is a thriving community that unites so many people who have similar life experiences and understand where you are coming from.
“In a world that can feel uncertain and divided, the hospice is a true oasis of kindness and compassion. I really mean that – everyone is accepted and supported, united by the charity’s fantastic work.
“I began to think about becoming a volunteer while Linda was cared for on the Inpatient Unit. I kept reflecting on how I could support the hospice, knowing I could never fully repay the debt I owe them.
“The significance of the charity in our lives was immense, and all the care and support I had seen inspired me to give back.
“I now volunteer as a Ward Clerk on Friday afternoons on the Inpatient Unit. This involves helping with admissions, taking calls, arranging transport, and other tasks. By supporting the nurses in these ways, they can focus more of their time on caring for patients.
“Volunteering has shifted my focus and made the hospice a big part of my life. At 71, volunteering has taught me new skills and I am proud to contribute to a charity that gave so much to my wife and our family.
“On top of this, I also hosted a benefit gig with my band, Red Sky High, in support of the hospice. It was a fantastic evening that raised over £3,000, an amazing amount which I was so pleased we were able to achieve.
“St Elizabeth Hospice performs such a vital role in our local community, yet it relies heavily on the generosity of local people to keep delivering this care.
“That’s why it is essential the community continues to support the hospice – whether that is through fundraising, volunteering or simply spreading awareness of its services.
“Many of us will be touched by the hospice at some point in our lives and their incredible team will be there to support you and your family at a time when care and compassion matter most.”