Sigi & Jon’s Hospice Story
“Knowing Sigi had access to the hospice’s high-quality, compassionate 24/7 care was such a reassurance.
“We could never have given her that level of care at home, but St Elizabeth Hospice’s expertise meant we knew she was safe and cared for,” explained Jon Malpass, whose wife Sigi received support from St Elizabeth Hospice before her death, aged 53, in September 2023.
Since launching in April 2019, more than 6,000 patients and their families in Great Yarmouth and Waveney have been supported by the free specialist palliative care provided by the joint partnership of St Elizabeth Hospice and ECCH.
Typically living with conditions such as cancer, heart failure, chronic lung diseases – such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease – and neurological disorders, these patients have received free care through the partnership’s varied, specialist palliative care provision available at Beccles Hospital, in the community and through the service’s 24-hour advice line, OneCall.
“Sigi was always so friendly, with a ready smile, making friends instantly,” said Jon, who lives in Witnesham.
“She always had time to talk and listen, sometimes to my annoyance as it made us late more than once! She was sociable, loved dancing and was devoted to her friends and family.
“In fact, we met at a club night at Ipswich Caribbean Club just before Christmas in 2002.
“Her career began in the wine industry, working in a variety of roles and managing the opening of the Adnams shop in Woodbridge, before moving into the NHS and later Suffolk County Council, where she became a public health project officer.
“Unfortunately, in April 2022, she was diagnosed with two Type 4 Glioblastoma Multiforme brain tumours after experiencing a seizure.
“She underwent surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Surgeons at Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge were able to remove one tumour, but the second could not be removed because of its position, and we were told her diagnosis was life-limiting.
“Almost straight after receiving this news, we contacted St Elizabeth Hospice. The charity’s Medical Director visited us to explain more about what the hospice was and the services they could provide us.
“During this time, we also had visits from the hospice’s community team to help Sigi remain comfortable at home. However, in July 2023, she had two falls within a few days, and we arranged for her to come into the hospice’s Inpatient Unit for greater support.
“After the falls, Sigi had lost much of her awareness and felt disorientated. We had planned for her to stay on the Inpatient Unit for only a few days, but her condition declined and she remained there for ten weeks, until her death.
“At the hospice, she had a lovely, clean, bright private room with her own bathroom. We were able to bring in her decorations, belongings and photos for the walls, which made it easier for her to be there.
“During her time on the Inpatient Unit she moved from a single room to different areas of the ward, but the hospice’s care remained the same throughout. The fact that we could visit at any time and stay as long as we wanted was a huge comfort, and being able to bring our dog, Pip, in made such a difference.
“Pip being able to visit also really helped our son Tom too and he enjoyed using the hospice’s Family Room and playing on the PlayStation to take a step away from things when needed.
“It was also lovely to see so many other patients having their dogs visit – the hospice team really did ensure at all points they were as accommodating and welcoming as possible.
“The hospice nurses gave Sigi excellent pain management as well as lots of physiotherapy and occupational therapy. She built up some great relationships with the nurses, volunteers and therapists who supported her, which was very important to her and suited her naturally social nature.
“A very special memory for us was being able to celebrate Sigi’s 53rd birthday together as an extended family on 29th August. It made a real difference to Sigi, and it was so important to all of us to have that last family celebration.
“It’s something you wouldn’t initially think would be possible when your loved one is receiving care, but the hospice were so kind in helping us ensure Sigi could enjoy cake, food and a glass of fizz with those she loved.
“On top of this, on several occasions Sigi also hosted her friends at the hospice for a takeaway and a catch-up too, which made her very happy.
“After Sigi’s death the hospice’s care did not stop there. They offered both Tom and me counselling support should we need it, and we also attended Suffolk Remembers 2025. We had a bunting tribute to Sigi, along with a candle at the event on Felixstowe seafront.
“It was really lovely – knowing everyone there was going through similar experiences created a special and unifying feeling.
“Supporting St Elizabeth Hospice and their vital services is so important. From a family point of view, the hospice really makes life easier and allows you to be there for your loved one.
“Sigi and I spoke at length and were clear we wanted her to receive care in the hospice, rather than at home and the team ensured this wish was met.
“The whole team supports both the patient and their family in an invaluable way during a very difficult time. Being able to go into the hospice and know that everyone is on your side, acting with compassion, takes a huge weight off your mind.
“Even if you receive support for just a few days, or like us, for a few weeks, knowing your loved one is in the best hands is incredibly reassuring.”
