‘Hospice care turned my prognosis on its head’ says palliative patient

In October 2024, Steve Browning was transferred from Addenbrookes hospital to the Inpatient Unit at the Hospice, after being told he had just two weeks to live.

His wife, Jayne said they were both a bit nervous and apprehensive about what the Hospice was going to be like, but said the care was outstanding and a real game changer.

Jayne shared:

“Home felt so lonely without Steve there. I was so grateful that I was able to visit whenever I wanted – I’d often drive into the Hospice at 4am to be with him. Being able to park outside was one less thing to think about – such a small thing but made such a difference.

The fact that our family could visit whenever was convenient was great and the Hospice was a place where Steve’s daughter was happy to bring his six-month old grandson.”

The whole experience completely changed her and Steve’s perspective on hospice’s, from the wonderful care to the sense of community, to the facilities that made them feel at home. They both loved that they could be outside in the garden together, watch the birds, and feel the sun and wind on their faces.

Jayne continued:

“On one day Steve spent a very happy hour or so singing along with the Music Therapist playing the piano in the Bistro – he was the talk of the Hospice for couple of days after!!  Steve loves to sing and that day really lifted his spirits.”

Jayne added:

“Although Steve was the one being looked after at the Inpatient Unit, I feel I was equally supported and cared for. The empathy from a couple of the staff in particular was so lovely but every single person there (nurses, Health Care Assistants, cleaners, volunteers etc.) was amazing, kind and so very thoughtful. I also loved the communal spaces at the Hospice where I could talk and support other friends and families going through the same thing.”

Four months later, in February 2025, Jayne shared that Steve is now in remission and looking to go back to work. Jayne, who works for Bidwells in Cambridge is volunteering her time with colleagues in the Hospice garden, to say thank you for their care.

Steve and Jayne are both thankful for the care provided at the Hospice and Jayne concluded:

“We believe the care Steve received at the Hospice turned his prognosis on its head without a shadow of a doubt. He still has an awfully long way to go to full recovery but definitely heading in the right direction.”

Jenny Oakes, Inpatient Unit Ward Manager commented:

“Steve’s story is very uplifting for him, his family and the staff at the Hospice too. Although many people do come to the Hospice for a good death, we also support patients to manage their pain, medication and for respite so they can return home.

It was lovely to see Steve and Jayne when they popped into the Bistro recently to say hello.”

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If you would like to find out more about Arthur Rank Charity please do so here arhc.org.uk.  It will cost over £13 million to run services at Arthur Rank Hospice Charity in 2024/25  if you would like to donate please do so here arhc.org.uk/donate/