A Gloucestershire resident whose wife died in 2021 bravely shared his words in Parliament this week, in the hope of highlighting to decision-makers the difference access to the right palliative care and grief support can make.
Mike Pollard, from Chipping Camden was sharing his experience as part of a parliamentary reception on Monday 20 May to mark Dying Matters Awareness Week, hosted by Sue Ryder with Hospice UK, Marie Curie, The National Bereavement Alliance and Together for Short Lives.
Sue Ryder Leckhampton Court Hospice cared for Mike’s wife, Brenda, and Mike says he will never forget the expert support they received. “When we arrived at Leckhampton, the care, love and support was just incredible,” he shared.
“Brenda fought cancer for two years. She had become frightened of hospitals, but as soon she got to the hospice, she felt reassured. When I look back, she couldn’t have had a better place to spend her final days. The care and love they gave just blew me away.”
Alongside Mike at the parliamentary event was Sue Ryder’s Chief Medical Director and Palliative Care Consultant at Sue Ryder Leckhampton Court Hospice, Dr Paul Perkins, who spoke about the importance of good palliative care. “The event was really powerful and attended by parliamentarians, people with lived experience of palliative and end-of-life care, and those working in hospices across the UK,” Paul shared.
“It was a unique chance for our decision makers to understand people’s experiences, as well as what political parties can do to make sure everyone can access the right care and support.
“We were so fortunate to have Mike join us bravely giving his voice to aid conversations around death, dying and grief with everyone in the room.”
“We want more healthcare professionals and the wider public to know that palliative care is not just about dying. Hospices are here to provide care and support for people much earlier in their illnesses too.”
By sharing his story, Mike hopes he can encourage political decision makers to consider how they can ensure everyone receives the best possible care and support at the end of life, and through bereavement, particularly as a general election for the next government has been called for 4 July.
“It’s nearly two years since Brenda died. It gives me real solace to know that she spent her last few weeks in a safe, happy place – it was where she wanted to be.”
If Mike’s story has inspired you to add your voice to help make sure the next Government makes support for people who are dying and grieving a priority, visit the Sue Ryder website for details.