Sally’s Story

I was referred to the Living Well Service via a specialist clinic [for my condition]. I have been attending sessions once a week for eight sessions on a Thursday and then 12 sessions on a Friday.

I had a volunteer driver who took me to the Hospice, as I live 45 minutes away and can no longer drive.

All the sessions were really interesting and the Friday sessions had a guest speaker for an hour too. I particularly enjoyed the ‘Music of our lives’ session where we chose a song and they played it.

What did you enjoy at the Living Well Sessions?
I enjoyed using the bike in the gym and I liked going because I met other people in similar situations. We took it in turns to choose different songs to play while we exercised – it was like a disco!

We set up a Whatsapp group too and now we keep in touch and offer support to each other via it.

The back massages with the Complementary Therapists were lovely. A lot of my problems are in my back and they really relaxed me.

What did you think before you came to the Living Well Sessions?
I was a bit apprehensive. I was worried I would see someone with my condition further down the line than me [and wouldn’t be ready for it]. Actually, I did meet someone in the Bistro and it was OK.

Have you done any advance care planning?
Gemma Irvine (Specialist Nurse) spoke to me about the ReSPECT form. I have filled out the Ducks in a row booklet and I had already sorted my power of attorney.

I’ve just got a new electric wheelchair that folds up and I got an indoor and outdoor ramp.

What would you say to someone who is referred to the Living Well Service?
I would say give it a try. You can meet people in a similar position so give it a go.

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Our ‘Outstanding’ services are provided free of charge to patients and their families. Our aim being to provide the highest quality care, helping people to make every moment count. You can find out more about how we are funded here: arhc.org.uk/how-we-are-funded.