Simon’s story for his mum Cheryle

“St Elizabeth Hospice treated Mum as a person, not just a patient. At first, we were worried it might feel depressing, and Mum was a little unsure too.

“However, it quickly became clear St Elizabeth Hospice was the right place for us to be supported as a family,” said Simon Taylor, whose mum Cheryle Taylor was supported by St Elizabeth Hospice until her death, aged 63, in May 2024.

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.

“Mum was very chatty and caring, always thinking of others before herself. She had five children and six grandchildren and adored her family so much. She was just a fantastic person and an amazing mum,” explained Simon, who lives near Felixstowe.

“Over the years, she lived with a number of health conditions, including COPD, which affected her breathing.

“She had been in and out of hospital. As her condition worsened, we spoke with doctors about the best options available, as it was becoming clear she was not going to get better. They suggested the hospice, and she came under St Elizabeth Hospice’s care in early March. It was the best decision we ever made.

“Straight away, Mum said she felt at home. The grandchildren were able to visit, using the games and toys in the hospice’s family room. St Elizabeth Hospice’s support meant we could see Mum happy again. The final part of life is difficult, but the hospice understands how to support the person and their whole family.

“We actually enjoyed coming to the hospice and visiting Mum, because she was so well looked after. As a family, we were able to spend quality time together and felt completely at ease.

“We would wheel her bed into the garden, which was so peaceful and lovingly maintained by the hospice volunteers. She loved being outside, surrounded by birds, the pond and fresh air. It is a beautiful setting.

“At Easter, the staff helped Mum make Easter bunnies for the grandchildren to enjoy when they visited. They also made sure there were plenty of Easter eggs to share, and together they created a small Easter crown for Mum to wear.

“The grandchildren loved it so much. They were collecting Easter eggs and bringing them back to Mum’s room. I think we ended up with more Easter eggs than Morrisons!

“This is just one example of the many amazing personal touches the hospice provides which you would not necessarily expect, but they help you make precious memories during the time you have left together with your loved ones.

“At every point, the hospice staff looked at ways to make sure their services were tailored towards Mum and our family. In her final week, my brother and I stayed overnight and even shared takeaways there. It felt more like a warm, welcoming home than a clinical setting.

“St Elizabeth Hospice is a very special place. There is a real sense of calm when you walk in, you never feel afraid, just comfortable. It is something you cannot fully explain until you experience it.

“The hospice cared for Mum so well, and we were welcomed just as much as she was. That meant everything to us as a family.

“I promised Mum I would give something back to the hospice in recognition of the care we received. With a background in local football, I decided to organise a fundraising match at the Martello Ground, home to Felixstowe & Walton United.

“We call it the CALT Cup, named after Mum – Cheryle Anne Louise Taylor. The match features Felixstowe Wanderers, who I manage, against Felixstowe & Walton Under-18s.

“Football, like the hospice, is a big part of my local community. Hosting a football-themed fundraiser for a charity that makes such a difference locally felt like the perfect way to give back.

“We raise funds through ticket sales and a raffle, with local businesses kindly donating prizes. We have held the match for two years and raised over £10,000 for the hospice in the process.

“I love hosting the match as there is such a great buzz and you get to see people come together and support the hospice.

“I know Mum would be so proud of the funds we have raised for the charity and I hope our support has helped other families receive the hospice’s amazing care.”