Maurice & Hazel’s Hospice Story

“You want the last memories and precious remaining time you have with a loved one to bring comfort.
“Thanks to St Elizabeth Hospice and the amazing care they provided us, I am able to do this and look back at these moments with peace,” explained Maurice Lainchbury, whose wife Hazel received support from the hospice’s Inpatient Unit team until her death, aged 70 in May 2020.
Annually, St Elizabeth Hospice delivers care to over 4,000 patients and their families, living with progressive or life-limiting conditions throughout East & Mid-Suffolk, Great Yarmouth and Waveney.
Every year, these services cost around £12m to facilitate, with 70% of funds being raised via revenue streams and community generosity such as gifts in Wills, retail shops, donations and fundraising activities.
In fact, 1 in 5 St Elizabeth Hospice patients are supported by funds from gifts in Wills, with every penny making a difference to those under the hospice’s care.
Following the care given to Hazel, by the hospice, Maurice is one of many generous people who have pledged to leave the charity a gift in their Will.
“Leaving a donation to St Elizabeth Hospice in my Will was an easy decision. My career often took me abroad, with Hazel joining me frequently, so I’ve had my Will prepared for some time and know the peace of mind it brings,” said Maurice.
“Hazel came to St Elizabeth Hospice’s care after a short period of ill health, caused by weakness in her lungs which was eventually found to be cancer.
“As her condition deteriorated, a friend made us aware of St Elizabeth Hospice’s services. I was, and remain, extremely proud of Hazel’s bravery in facing what happened to her, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic which meant visiting her in hospital was very difficult.

“It was such an anxious time for us, and I’ll never forget the moment I received the call confirming she would be coming to the hospice, knowing the huge difference their compassionate care would make for both of us during Hazel’s final days.
“Hazel stayed in the hospice’s Inpatient Unit for about a week, and the most important thing was that I was able to visit her there.
“She had a single room, and the staff arranged for an additional bed so I could be with her throughout the night. They also provided meals for me, which made the whole situation slightly more bearable, allowing us to be together as much as possible.
“During such an incredibly difficult time, their thoughtful, human touches were priceless. I will be forever grateful to the hospice staff for making this possible, and I know it meant the world to Hazel too.
“Hazel and I were married for over 50 years and we shared a wonderful life together. I just never imagined her time would be cut short at only 70-years-old.
“Life, however, brings many challenges, and one has to face them. My overwhelming feeling is one of gratitude. Gratitude for the wonderful life Hazel and I shared, and for the love we had for one another.
“Gratitude also for St Elizabeth Hospice, whose support during our time of greatest need and vulnerability was invaluable. Their care was exceptional, and their staff could not have been more understanding.
“Hospices, such as St Elizabeth Hospice, are mainly self-funded and I would encourage everyone to consider giving back to these incredible charities to support their vital services and say ‘thank you’ for all they do.
“Whether through leaving a gift in your Will, fundraising, or volunteering, any way you can contribute makes a real difference. From my personal experience with hospice care, I know just how essential their support is.
“To me, St Elizabeth Hospice is a place filled with compassion and warmth. I’m proud to share my story and memories of their care, and I hope it inspires others to consider leaving a gift in their Will to support this remarkable charity.”
To find out more about leaving a gift in you Will to St Elizabeth Hospice call 01473 723600 or visit www.stelizabethhospice.org.uk/support-us/make-a-donation/make-a-gift-in-your-will.