Anita, known for her bubbly and comical personality, loved her family, being at home, gardening and playing bingo. After falling ill on a trip to visit relatives in Australia, she was sadly diagnosed with terminal lung cancer, and went on to be cared for at Bolton Hospice. Natalie, one of her four grown-up children, shares what the hospice and our Light Up a Life appeal means to them.

"My mum was very unsettled on arriving at the hospice, frightened about what this meant, and kept saying “I’m not ready, I don’t want to die". Within an hour of arriving though, mum was settled, comfortable and her anxieties were eased, down to the love and care shown to her by the staff and volunteers.

"Within a few days, her pain was under control, and mum began to engage in the activities in the Wellbeing Hub, where she made me and my sister a beautiful message in a bottle, which we will cherish forever. As mum began to deteriorate, all of her children were allowed to stay the night, in camp beds, and to spend that time with her meant so much. The nurses were constantly coming in to check mum was comfortable, and listened when we had any concerns. The nurses always asked about us too, taking time to console us and give us a hug when we needed it. We couldn't have asked for anything more during such a difficult time, they are all very special people.”

"We have attended Light Up a Life for two years since losing mum, because it brings us such comfort. We feel close to her just by being there at the hospice and amongst other families who share our grief and experiences. The hospice cares about families as much as its patients and that means more than you could ever realise."

It's our pleasure to invite you to join Natalie and her family, and dedicate a light in memory of your loved ones