I am attending Light up a Life to remember my Grandad, Thomas

My Grandad, Thomas Smart.

A retired Ambulance Man.

Even saying his name brings a smile to my face, a strong, compassionate, fiercely loyal family man who filled our lives with so much love and laughter and taught us to care beyond measure.

He always had so much time for his family, so much patience. A true gentleman.

Grandads journey with Beaumond House started with Hospice at Home. His cancer had spread and things were starting to get harder. Up until this point he was being looked after by family in his own home.

Unfortunately Grandad had a fall which resulted in him breaking his hip.He had the hip operation and spent some time in the hospital, his recovery from his operation went well so they wanted to discharge him.

We started on a mission to get his house ready, hospital bed, walking aids, Helping at Home etc.

Grandad was not well enough to go home at this stage so he went into the hospice for the two week respite care.

It was very apparent after the two weeks, that Grandad wouldn’t be ready to go home and as a family knowing he would be able to stay in the hospice was such a relief, although we took it in turns to keep him company and all the staff soon started to feel like friends. We asked him if he was happy here and his reply? ‘I am very happy here’.

I really thought I knew what Beaumond House Hospice did for patients in their care, well you think you do until you need them, you then discover you’ve only scratched the surface.

Having this incredible Hospice on our doorstep offering this level of care is outstanding and they require our support to keep going so other families can benefit from their expert care.

Knowing my amazing Grandad was getting this level of care meant everything.

As a family member I can tell you what a hug, a conversation or a slice of toast means to someone whose family member is in Beaumond House, it means a lifeline, it means understanding, being held up, being heard, being cared for beyond what you think you deserve, the impact is deeply felt.

My wonderful, amazing Grandad spent his final few weeks in Beaumond House surrounded by our family who were able to spend 24 hours a day at his side.

All of this was made possible because of the reach extended by Beaumond House to wrap its arms around us all in our time of need.

The loss of my Grandad is weighty, and I will never be able to articulate the depth of my gratitude to all behind the blue door.

Victoria Atkin