Many years have passed since Christmas 1986 when Sylvia Wightman’s mum was being cared for in Rowcroft’s Inpatient Unit. But the memories haven’t faded. The love, warmth and sensitivity along with the incredible support that Sylvia and her mum received from the Rowcroft team inspired Sylvia and her husband Gordon to leave a gift to Rowcroft in their Will.
“Leaving the legacy to Rowcroft was something that came naturally to Gordon and I because we wanted to assist the hospice to plan ahead to provide essential care for more people in the future,” says Sylvia. “Rowcroft was there for my mum, my brother-in-law Colin, and for my friend Janet too.
“The care that Mum received in the Inpatient Unit was wonderful. I remember feeling the love, warmth and the quiet contentment all around. I felt reassured. Mum was treated with respect and gentleness, and I lived in there by her bedside for four days. It was like being at home. “As it was Christmas, the hospice was full of festive spirit. There was carol singing, and on Christmas Day the nursing staff came round with stockings with little gifts inside. Gordon and I were even treated to a Christmas lunch. The nurses were so caring and loving. They looked after Mum so well, and they took care of us too. Nothing was too much trouble.
“On Boxing Day, Mum slipped away quietly and peacefully. For a parting, it was as lovely as it possibly could be. And the staff were so helpful and supportive afterwards. “I’m proud to be supporting Rowcroft through our Will. We are all privileged to have Rowcroft in our location. Our legacies provide a secure future.”
For further information about leaving a gift to Rowcroft in your Will, please call Rebecca on 01803 217405 or email rebecca.cogger@ rowcrofthospice.org.uk