Maureen intends to leave her mark on life
Joining the therapy sessions at Pilgrims Hospices has made a remarkable difference to the life of Maureen Meltzer. With new-found confidence and new friends, she has been inspired to take on different interests and challenges to help her live well in every moment.
Maureen was diagnosed with breast cancer and knows her symptoms will not improve. Pilgrims are helping her to embrace the chance to make every moment count. Maureen’s GP made the referral to Pilgrims in order to help meet her individual needs and assist in getting the right support to maintain her wellbeing at home.
I knew nothing about hospice services prior to attending Pilgrims, it was a big step to take and I’m so glad I made it.Maureen
Maureen from Faversham is 72 and attends the therapy sessions at Pilgrims Hospice Canterbury day services: “When I was offered the opportunity to get involved, I initially thought I don’t need any therapy? However, after some thought, I said, ‘I’ve nothing to lose’, and read through the booklet and discovered much more than I had imagined.
“There’s a surprising variety of classes, including crafts, chair yoga, relaxation and exercise along with therapeutic programmes to help people feel better and do more.”
“Being quite a private person, I never thought I would enjoy coming to the support sessions. I’ve been attending on Mondays for about 6 weeks and really look forward to meeting everyone at the group. I now thoroughly enjoy the company of others and the atmosphere is so relaxed and the staff are very knowledgeable and caring. I feel like I’m amongst friends.” Maureen added.
I now thoroughly enjoy the company of others and the atmosphere is so relaxed and the staff are very knowledgeable and caring. I feel like I’m amongst friends.Maureen
Maureen explained: “I knew nothing about hospice services prior to attending Pilgrims, it was a big step to take and I’m so glad that I made it. I’m not treated as though I’m fragile because of my illness, I’m treated as an individual.
“I don’t know what’s around the corner but Pilgrims most certainly has helped me to think positively about my wellbeing and keeps me motivated not to give in.
“My husband David and the children are very proud of me, which helps me to remain positive about the future. I’m not brave, in fact, I’m often quite scared; knowing I have Pilgrims to lean on is definitely a bonus. I hope that sharing my story will inspire others who need support to speak to their healthcare professional or GP for more Pilgrims information.”
