"Kilbryde Hospice"

My dad was diagnosed with MDS which then progressed to Acute Myeloid Leukemia last year.  He had a very tough year throughout 2021 and he deteriorated very quickly.  After multiple hospital stays and several surgeries, we were so lucky that he was able to spend his final weeks at Kilbryde Hospice.  

Before my dad became a patient at the hospice, I had no idea how much of a happy and peaceful place a hospice was.  I was pleasantly surprised.  My dad had his own room with his own bathroom.  His room was very spacious, had a big TV and patio doors that looked out onto a beautiful garden.  We were allowed to take my dad out to the garden for fresh air throughout his stay.  We visited him every single day, his grandchildren came with us at the weekend and he was even allowed visits from his dog.  There was even the option of an additional bed in the room if my mum wanted to stay with him.  

The reception staff were such kind and caring people who always took an interest in your day/things going on in your life each day we visited.  When entering the IPU, the nurses, doctors, cleaners and clinical staff would all be so friendly.  Every single one of them knew my dad very well and were very aware of all of his needs, etc.  They had so much patience with him and did everything they could possibly do to make his stay enjoyable.  We would often arrive at the IPU to find them laughing and joking with my dad.  He loved it!  The spiritual care volunteers and the chaplains would also visit my dad and offer support throughout his stay.  They were all so friendly and really took an interest in him.

My dad celebrated his birthday whilst staying at Kilbryde Hospice.  He received a lovely birthday cake baked by the chef at the hospice as well as a lovely birthday hamper with such kind gifts inside it.  The staff had decorated his room with balloons and banners and they all sang Happy Birthday to him.  It was very comforting knowing that he was in such a lovely place with such wonderful people around him.

The staff were truly amazing people who went over and above to make his stay as comfortable as possible.  Not only did they take such great care of my dad throughout his final weeks, they also made sure that my family were supported, particularly my mum.  During her visits, she was offered therapy sessions, given oils and music to help her relax and they also made sure she never went without a coffee or some food when she visiting.  The staff were also always there for a little chat and to make sure she was coping.    

I cannot thank the staff at Kilbryde Hospice enough.  You supported all of us throughout such a difficult time in our lives and we will be forever grateful.