"I visited my mother, who was relieved to..."

What I liked

I visited my mother, who was relieved to have left Exeter hospital and was very happy with the care she was receiving from all the staff in Honiton.

What could be improved

She could not manage the jug of water to refill her glass when she was thirsty. A smaller jug perhaps, or a water bottle with a straw attached to the table tray.

Anything else?

On Sunday 18th July a person came round enquiring if anyone would like to attend a short ecumenical service, from The Friends of the Hospital, I believe he said. That was fine, however, he left a note for those who declined and I believe the content to be unacceptable. the following is a quote - 'I saw you yesterday as you were talking with your friends. I waited all day, hoping you would want to talk with Me also. As evening drew near, I gave you a sunset to close your day and a cool breeze to rest you-and I waited. You never came. Oh, yes, it hurt Me-but I still love you because I am your Friend.' I think that this sort of missionary zeal in a hospital is unacceptable, it is almost threatening. It finishes with - 'You are free to choose Me. It’s your decision. I have chosen you, and because of this I will wait – because I love you'. How about the people for whom this could be deeply upsetting or offensive, especially in hospital where they are particularly vulnerable? My mother is a Christian, but she did not want the note after she read it.

Offering an ecumenical service is very good, threatening people is quite a different matter. I would hope you would ask them to refrain from these notes in the future.