“Bill was home to me, now he isn’t there it’s not home, it’s just a house. It’s why I enjoy coming to bereavement group as it helps get me out of the house and be with people who know what I’m going through.”

Sat in the Hospice Day Centre Pauline recalls her found memories of Bill her husband and the sixty five very special and varied years they spent together. From Middlesex originally Pauline and Bill moved around a lot during their married life and spent a lot of time in their holiday home in France.

“While living in France me and Bill had a great social life and lots of friends, we would have lots of parties and social gatherings” Pauline fondly recalls.

Sadly in July 2022 Bill was diagnosed with Bladder Cancer and also starting to display early signs of Dementia. Pauline and Bill relocated to Wales and settled in Aberbeeg. Bill was referred to the Hospice in October 2023.

“It was reassuring to have the Hospice there to help look after Bill. I’m pleased he passed away at home peacefully and he wasn’t in any pain. The Hospice team helped make this possible and for that I am very grateful”.

Having been married for sixty five years Bill’s death has left a huge void in Pauline’s life, the Family Support team have provided both practical and emotional support for Pauline, which has helped build her confidence back.

“Bill was home, now he isn’t there it’s not home, it’s just a house. It’s why I enjoy coming to bereavement group as it helps get me out of the house and be with people who know what I’m going through. We drink tea, eat biscuits and provide support for each other. With the first anniversary of Bill passing away coming up in November I know it’s going to be grim, but coming to group will help as the others will recognise how I’m feeling and help me through it”.

“I don’t know what Christmas will bring but Bill wouldn’t want me to be miserable, we went away for Christmas in 2022 up to Scotland, it was the last holiday we had together. I have to remember all the good times and memories we shared together, and I will always be grateful for the support the Hospice provided to Bill and continues to provide for me”

Pauline