We were quickly swept into the communal area, where we were met with many volunteers who all acknowledged us and welcomed us with their own unique blend of compassion. We were introduced to other patients who were delighted to talk to us and include us in their own life stories, as if we were old friends.

Before I travelled to see my sister, I was filled with dread as she was very unwell, and I was concerned about how I would feel leaving her when we had to return to Scotland. However, after speaking with her and experiencing firsthand the atmosphere created by the environment of Skanda Vale Hospice, these anxieties were soon dissolved.

The absolute compassion emitted by the love of all the staff and volunteers, and hearing first hand the experiences of both my sister, other patients, as well as the staff and volunteers, we returned to Scotland relieved and with an inner peace which is hard to describe.

The love and peace my wife and I felt was reflected in my sister’s own words, saying that she had found such incredible support, love and assisted care during this part of her life journey.

My sister said: “Amongst other things, Skanda Vale Hospice has given me time to think, to organise my thoughts and experience companionship in a way I never thought existed.”

We would love for you to read this letter to your staff and patients to let your volunteers and nursing staff know the difference they are making. Their care extended much further than the hospice and sent my wife and I away reflecting on how ‘care’ can be delivered differently whilst maintaining clinical excellence in an environment conducive to peace, calm and inner spiritual exploration. You are all so inspiring and are making a difference!

I know my sister really benefited and continued to benefit from the love shown.

I would personally like to thank every single person I encountered, especially the patients, for including our family in their lives at this moment in their journey.

Your love and care was truly felt today.