Sunflower Memories: Michelle’s story
After Michelle Goodman’s dad, John Hopkinson, was cared for at Pilgrims Hospice Canterbury in 2014, she decided to dedicate a sunflower in his memory as part of our Sunflower Memories campaign. Here, Michelle shares how this helps her give back for the care that John received.
My dad, John Hopkinson, was a wonderful, friendly man, always ready to help; he was so well-liked and a real gentleman, helping others with their gardens. He was a loving husband to my late Mum and father to me. In his spare time he loved being with his grandson, Jack, and making all sorts of wooden creations.
When it was suggested that my dad go into Pilgrims to get his medication under control, the word ‘hospice’ really scared me. I was completely surprised to find such friendly nurses and a lovely sunny ward for my dad at the Canterbury hospice. Dad was given the utmost care during his stay.
Michelle
When it was suggested that my dad go into Pilgrims to get his medication under control, the word ‘hospice’ really scared me. I was completely surprised to find such friendly nurses and a lovely sunny ward for my dad at the Canterbury hospice. Dad was given the utmost care during his stay, and both myself and Dad were made to feel so welcome. The staff offered me tea and snacks while he was sleeping. On good days, the nurses wrapped him up and I was able to take him around the beautiful hospice grounds in a wheelchair; nothing was ever too much trouble.
When my lovely dad passed away, Pilgrims Hospices were there once again to provide me with ongoing support. I cannot thank them and their nurses enough; it takes a special person to become a nurse but a very special one to be a hospice nurse.
Michelle
When my lovely dad passed away, Pilgrims Hospices were there once again to provide me with ongoing support. I cannot thank them and their nurses enough; it takes a special person to become a nurse but a very special one to be a hospice nurse. I will forever be in their debt for the support and care they gave my dad, and I know if Dad was here he would say the same.
Supporting Sunflower Memories each year allows me to give something back to the hospice for the wonderful care they gave my dad. It brings me comfort to think that other people will receive the same amazing care because of our donations, and that’s why I’ll be dedicating a sunflower to my dad again this year.
Sunflower Memories events will take place at our hospices in July 2018:
- Canterbury, Saturday 21 July, 11am – 1pm
- Thanet, Saturday 21 July, 2pm – 4pm
- Ashford, Sunday 22 July, 2pm – 4pm
If you’d like to dedicate a sunflower in memory of a loved one please visit pilgrimshospices.org/sunflowers or contact Sophie or Sara on 01227 782 066.
