Our lives changed forever when we had to say goodbye to our Derek.
My name is Lynn and I want to share our story with you, and also thank you for all your amazing support. My family will never forget your generosity. Your commitment to support the hospice really does help families like mine whose lives are turned upside down after a diagnosis of a life limiting illness.
St Vincent’s Hospice provided crucial support during our family’s most challenging moments.
My husband Derek was diagnosed with bone cancer in December 2022. It was an incredibly tough time but we learned to live with it by taking one day at a time.
Derek, Scotland’s senior men’s hockey coach since 2012, had just returned from the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham. He dedicated his life to coaching, passionately helping his players reach their full potential. As a renowned and respected hockey player and coach, he led his teams to multiple Commonwealth Games.
Following Derek’s diagnosis, I took on the role of caring for him in our home. He was a straightforward person who faced challenges directly. As time passed, Derek began to experience significant pain, and both of us found it increasingly challenging to manage. That’s when St Vincent’s Hospice stepped in.
In early May 2023, Derek was admitted to the inpatient unit at St Vincent’s, initially for pain management and symptom control.
The moment we walked through the doors of the hospice a weight was lifted from our shoulders.
The care team immediately assumed responsibility, warmly welcoming us and demonstrating a genuine interest in our well-being as a family. Their commitment to patient centred care meant that they supported us in every possible way.
Donate
In a matter of days at being at St Vincent’s, I noticed a positive change in Derek. He became happier, more vibrant, and experienced less pain. We were fortunate to have Derek back, and we cherished 8 joyful weeks together, for which we were deeply thankful.
Our sons, along with Derek’s brother Craig, family members, and friends, made frequent visits, and they were also treated with special care. We shared many joyful moments and laughter with the compassionate care team. Derek often expressed that every trainee nurse should have the opportunity to experience care as it should be provided, right here at St Vincent’s.
As a family, we created special moments with pizza nights while watching football and had a delightful curry night on the terrace. There was a constant buzz of activity. Derek and I frequently savoured peaceful walks in the gardens, relishing the moments alone. Derek celebrated his 65th birthday during his stay and, instead of receiving gifts, he gave bottles of wine to the entire team as a gesture of his gratitude and appreciation for their care.
Donate
Derek was determined to continue working when he had the energy for it. He diligently worked on his laptop and conducted online meetings from his room, which allowed him to maintain a sense of normality in his life. He made an effort to stay physically active, frequently using the exercise bike to help maintain his strength.
I had the privilege of meeting wonderful family members of other patients while spending time at the café, and these connections became a heartfelt lifeline. These friendships continue to be a source of emotional comfort.
Derek died on the 30th of June, surrounded by his loving family and attended by the staff he had grown so close to.
We will forever cherish the time we spent in this extraordinary place, where the dedicated staff took care of us with warmth and compassion.
