Before I leave this world, it is my deepest desire to ensure that my boys know — without a doubt — that they are loved beyond measure, that I am endlessly proud of them, and that their happiness means everything to me.
To leave them with lasting comfort and guidance, I want to put a few things in place:
I would like to write personal letters to each of them, to be given at important milestones in their lives — moments when my words might offer encouragement, love, or simply a reminder that I am still with them in spirit.
I would also like to create short videos for them, messages they can watch during major life events or when they just need to hear my voice. These videos won’t be perfect or rehearsed — just honest, full of heart, and made to feel like I’m right there beside them, cheering them on.
Finally, I want to write a book — a collection of advice, lessons, and words of wisdom. It will be the things I would have shared with them if I had the chance: stories from my life, values I hope they carry forward, guidance for hard times, and encouragement to always live fully, love deeply, and laugh often.
I also believe it is important to say this: Talking about death does not hasten its arrival. In fact, acknowledging it allows us to live more fully and to prepare our hearts and minds with peace. Thinking about these things while life is still vibrant makes it easier, not harder, when the time eventually comes. It gives the gift of a more peaceful death — not just for the one leaving, but for all those who remain.
Kerry Truelove
Healthcare Assistant, Beaumond House
Dying Matters Week 5th - 11th May 2025
Every year, people around the UK use Dying Matters Awareness Week as a moment to encourage all communities to get talking in whatever way, shape or form works for them.
The national campaign, led by Hospice UK, encourages open and honest discussions about end of life experiences. This year’s theme, The Culture of Dying Matters, delves into the diverse ways communities across the UK discuss, navigate, and commemorate death and dying, while emphasising the shared emotions that connect us all in grief and loss.
Beaumond House is inviting the local community to join the conversation about death, dying, and grief in ways that resonate with them during this year’s Dying Matters Awareness Week (5–11 May 2025).
Head over to our Facebook page throughout the week to join the conversation.
'Before I Die'
At Beaumond House, we invited some of our staff members to reflect on the thought-provoking question: 'Before I die, I want to...'