Lewis & Heather’s Hospice Story
“Without St Elizabeth Hospice, I don’t know what would have happened or where we would have been as a family. From the very beginning, the care they gave was so personal and tailored to Heather’s needs.
“They didn’t just treat her illness – they cared for her as a person, taking the time to really get to know her. The compassion and dignity they showed every step of the way meant everything to us,” explained Lewis Rowsell, from Ipswich, whose wife Heather received support from St Elizabeth Hospice before her death in November 2014.
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.
“Heather was just an amazing lady and always had time for everyone,” said Lewis. “She loved her family, grandchildren and children – family was everything to her.
“She just had one of those personalities that lit up a room as soon as she walked in. We had so many lovely adventures and holidays together, with many more still planned. It really was the saddest of days when we learnt of her cancer diagnosis.
“Heather had a period of poor health with chest infections in 2013 and spent time in hospital over Christmas to receive support. It was in January 2014 when test results showed Heather had incurable lung cancer – we both just cried at hearing such cruel news.
“She received chemotherapy treatment for a short while, before a member of the hospital team made us aware of the hospice and the support they could provide.”
“As soon as we arrived at St Elizabeth Hospice, we felt the warmth and welcoming atmosphere of the charity. There is not enough money you could ever pay the hospice to thank them for the care they give.
“They ensured Heather had the best quality of life possible, providing relief and comfort during such an uncertain time.
“Every member of the hospice team takes the time to talk to you and listens to any questions you or your loved one may have. They get to know you as individuals, and they even helped us celebrate Heather’s 50th birthday on the Inpatient Unit with a special family gathering.
“With the hospice’s support, Heather was able to return home for a short period too. It meant so much to us all to have her home – without the hospice this would never have been possible.
“The hospice staff took control of the situation, visiting Heather to check she was ok and to monitor her condition.
“Gradually, her condition deteriorated, and Heather moved back to the hospice, where she died in November 2014.
“However, the hospice’s care didn’t end there – they continued to provide bereavement support to me and many members of our family. It truly is a holistic service, supporting both the patient and their loved ones.”
“As a family, we have done many fundraising activities for the hospice over the years, including the Midnight Walk, to show our gratitude for the amazing care they gave us.
“In 2023, we took part in the hospice’s autumn raffle and were lucky enough to win a cruise to Iceland, which my new spouse, Tessa, and I enjoyed. It was a stunning trip – one I know Heather would have loved too.
“We also have a leaf on the hospice’s stunning Memory Tree, which serves as a lovely tribute to Heather and to so many people who have received support from the charity.
“Having Heather’s name engraved on one of the leaves ensures her memory is kept alive – which is so important to us.
“The hospice is an important community service and everyone who volunteers or fundraises for the charity is making a real difference to families, similar to my own, who receive St Elizabeth Hospice’s vital care.”
