23 Apr 2025 Patient and Family Stories

“A World of Difference”: Joe’s Story and the Care He’s had with The Kirkwood

At 76 years old, Joe Midgley has spent more than five decades living in Mirfield. Originally from Huddersfield, he’s been a proud member of the local community and now, as he receives end-of-life care at The Kirkwood, he’s sharing his story in the hope that others will understand just how vital the hospice is, not just for him, but for everyone in the community.

Joe’s journey to The Kirkwood began with something that seemed relatively minor.

He said: “It all started when I began feeling unwell at home. I just didn’t feel right. So I went to the doctor, and at first, they thought it was just gastroenteritis. But I knew something wasn’t right because I kept getting worse.”

After a second visit to the GP, Joe was told he was showing signs of pancreatic cancer and admitted directly to a hospital ward: “They thought it might be gallbladder-related at first, but after about a week in hospital, they finally did a proper CT scan, and that’s when they discovered pancreatic cancer.”

Though the diagnosis was life-changing, Joe was clear in his wishes: he wanted to be cared for by The Kirkwood. That choice came from a personal connection, his sister-in-law was a long-time matron at the hospice, but also from a deep respect for the charity itself.

He said: “She lives just ten minutes away and knows many of the staff. I’d been here a couple of times with her and knew the kind of care they provided. Plus, in Mirfield, the whole community is really behind The Kirkwood it’s got an excellent reputation. Honestly, I think it’s the best hospice in all of West Yorkshire.”

Joe specifically asked for a bed with The Kirkwood, feeling that it would offer more comfort than being at home or in hospital. And from the moment he arrived, he knew he’d made the right choice: “From the moment I got here, I’ve felt incredibly well cared for. The first few days were just amazing. The treatment I’ve received has been excellent, and the nurses are so kind they go above and beyond and do it all with a smile on their faces.”

Beyond the care itself, Joe was struck by the environment a detail that often goes unnoticed until it’s most needed: “What really surprised me was the quality of everything, the building itself, the interiors, even the gardens. It’s all been so thoughtfully done. It doesn’t feel clinical or overwhelming like a hospital. It’s peaceful, it’s calming, and that’s something you really appreciate in a place like this.”

Joe has been in both hospital and hospice care, so he knows the difference - and he tells it how it is.

He said: “The hospital was hectic and relentless. One evening a nurse told me she was responsible for 16 patients, how can one person manage that? Here, it’s the complete opposite. Each nurse looks after one or two patients. It’s calm, it’s organised, and it feels professional in a completely different way. It’s a world of difference, and it shows in everything they do.”

But like many others, Joe is aware of the challenges The Kirkwood faces. With a reported £1.7 million shortfall, funding is a critical issue: “The fact that The Kirkwood has had to go through a financial crisis I think that’s a national disgrace. It shouldn’t be down to just donations and community fundraising, no matter how generous people are. Yes, it’s brilliant that the local community gets behind it, but that doesn’t mean the government should be let off the hook.”

Despite this, Joe has seen first hand the dedication of those who support The Kirkwood, both professionally and as volunteers himself included.

He said: “We’ve done coffee mornings at the library where I volunteer. I know even the Freemasons donate. The support is there, and people care deeply. But the government needs to recognise the value of what’s happening here.”

Now, in the final stage of his life, Joe is focused on comfort, dignity, and peace of mind all things The Kirkwood has given him in abundance.

Joe commented: “I know I’m terminal that’s not going to change. But being here means I can be pain free, I can be comfortable, and I can have peace of mind. I’ve come to terms with it, and I’m okay with where I am.”

He ends with a simple but powerful message: “It’s absolutely vital that The Kirkwood continues to survive and thrive. It would be a huge loss to the community if it had to close its doors or reduce its services. I’ve only been here a short while, but it’s made a real difference to me.”

To help us care for more people like Joe, why not make a monthly donation to The Kirkwood where every penny counts to help us care for those people in our community with a life limiting illness. Make a monthly donation HERE and help to change someone's life.