"Respecting what mattered to Dad"

My Dad passed away in April 2025 at Larkfield View Care Home. He was diagnosed with lung cancer in 2018 and lived independently until February 2025. He was very reluctant to move into care even although we knew he didn't have long left.

Once social work assessed his needs and agreed a care package things moved quickly. Lauren, one of the nurses visited my dad at home. She was so kind and reassuring. What mattered to my Dad was that he could have a ciggy and a drink if he wanted one.

At first he managed to go out to the garden under his own steam, but when this wasn't possible, the staff would support him. As my Dad's condition deteriorated staff gently but firmly took control and provided the care and respect we all needed.

Two days before he passed he was out in the garden with a cig in one hand and a can of lager in the other. He was smiling, chin up and feeling the warmth of the sun on his skin and a slight breeze. That's what it's all about.

Everyone at Larkfield was so kind, not just to my dad but to us as well.  Might sound strange to mention but the cleaners and the kitchen staff also seemed to just instinctively know whether to give you a hearty hello, a big smile or a kind glance. Every one of the team were amazing.

Elsie, the manager, had asked if we'd think about the funeral cortege passing by so the staff could pay their respects. That touched my heart. On the day, we slowed as we approached the home and saw staff lining both sides of the street. As the car stopped they each placed a flower on the coffin. They really are like family.

Although it's been sad, the kindness and respect our family received was outstanding and will never be forgotten.