10 Jan 2025 Patient and Family Stories

A Christmas of Care and Compassion: Rachel’s Journey with The Kirkwood

Rachel Copley’s experience with The Kirkwood over Christmas 2024 highlights the profound impact of compassionate, holistic care. From the warm welcome she received upon arrival to the thoughtful touches that made her feel celebrated during the festive season, Rachel’s story demonstrates the extraordinary dedication of The Kirkwood’s staff and volunteers. Through personalised support, a joyful atmosphere, and a focus on both patients and their families, The Kirkwood has transformed Rachel’s perception of hospice care, showing it to be a place of hope and healing. 

Rachel from Mirfield, Christmas 2024 was unlike any other. Having her first real encounter with The Kirkwood, Rachel experienced a level of care, compassion, and joy that transformed a challenging time into one filled with warmth and celebration.

“This has been my first real contact with The Kirkwood,” Rachel shared. “I’ve always known about it from living in the area. I even take part in the monthly lottery and contribute to fundraising events when they happen. However, until now, I’d never had a personal connection. That all changed when I came here. The moment I arrived, I was met with warmth, kindness, and a level of care I couldn’t have imagined.”

Rachel arrived at The Kirkwood apprehensive, like many who associate hospices with end-of-life care. Yet, her fears quickly dissipated.

“The Kirkwood has been extraordinary. From the moment I arrived, they took me in, protected me, and made me feel completely cared for,” Rachel explained. “They’ve done everything I needed, from providing comfy beds and warm blankets to the right medications and pain management.

“There’s always someone ready to hold your hand or listen to you. It’s not just about medical care; it’s about creating an environment where you feel safe and supported in every way.”

Rachel particularly valued the little touches that made her stay so comfortable. “Having fabulous food, a working TV to relax with, or even something as simple as warm blankets — it makes such a difference when you’re going through a hard time.”

Spending Christmas at The Kirkwood turned out to be a deeply uplifting experience for Rachel. The staff and volunteers went above and beyond to create a festive atmosphere.

“Being here over Christmas has been truly special,” Rachel said. “The place is lit with Christmas trees, giving it such a joyful atmosphere. The staff went out of their way to make it feel festive. I had a bubble bath, and they brought in fizzy drinks to create pretend cocktails. It’s little touches like that which make you feel celebrated and cared for, even when you’re facing such challenges.”

The Christmas festivities included choirs, an opera singer, and personalised moments such as handmade cards and offers to paint her nails. “Even if I couldn’t get out to see everything, I could hear the music and feel part of it all. It’s that feeling of being included and valued that makes all the difference.”

Rachel admitted she initially held common misconceptions about hospices. “Before I came here, I had the same fears many people have. When you hear the word ‘hospice,’ you immediately think it means end-of-life care. It’s scary, and I was apprehensive. However, now I understand that The Kirkwood is so much more than that.

“It’s a place that supports people wherever they are in their journey, whether you’re recovering, managing pain, or even at the end of life. It’s not about a label; it’s about the care, the kindness, and the way they make you feel valued and safe. My advice to anyone is to forget the word hospice. This is Kirkwood — a place of care, compassion, and support when you need it most.”

The Kirkwood’s care extended to Rachel’s family as well. “One of the things I really value about The Kirkwood is how they care not just for you but also for your family and friends,” she said. “My family has been able to visit me here, and the staff have made it so easy for them to feel comfortable.

“They’ve been able to share meals with me, sit with me in a quiet room, and even ask questions about my care when they needed to. It’s those practical, thoughtful touches like making an omelette for my family or giving us space to spend time together, that meant so much.”

For Rachel, her faith is central to her life, and The Kirkwood ensured she could practise it comfortably. “When I arrived, my local priest immediately arranged for a visit from the vicar here, and I’ve been able to have communion several times. My own vicar and curate have also been able to visit me. I didn’t expect this level of support, and I’m so grateful for it. It’s been a source of great comfort to me during this time.”

Though her time at The Kirkwood was short, Rachel’s experience has left an indelible mark. “I’ve only been here for a short time, but The Kirkwood will always stay with me. This experience has made me understand why so many people hold this place in such high regard. I’ve had friends who’ve lost loved ones here, and I never truly understood their gratitude until now.

“I want to stay connected to The Kirkwood and find ways to give back, whether that’s through volunteering, fundraising, or sharing my experience with others. This place has given me so much, and I want to make sure others can benefit from it too.”

Rachel’s advice to anyone considering reaching out to The Kirkwood is clear: “If you have the chance to connect with them, take it. They have the skills, the understanding, and the kindness to help you, no matter where you are in your journey. Don’t let the word ‘hospice’ put you off. This is Kirkwood, and it’s a place of hope, care, and support. Trust them; they’ll make all the difference.”