30 Apr 2024 Community

Carol Barton dedicates a sunflower every year to The Kirkwood in memory of her husband Colin

Every year for the past eleven years we have given people the opportunity to dedicate a Sunflower in memory of a loved one.  

Since 2018 Carol Barton has dedicated a Sunflower in memory of her beloved husband Colin whom we cared for up until his death on the 23rd of November 2018. Colin died at the age of 75 due to pancreatic cancer.

Since his death, Carol has dedicated a sunflower in his memory and has given each of his grandchildren one of the sunflowers to keep to remember him by. She also grows her own sunflowers every year as it was hers and Colin’s favourite flower.

On dedicating a flower to Colin, Carol said: “I've always loved the sunflower appeal and I donate to it every year in memory of Colin.

“I've always grown sunflowers in the garden too. I always grow six, one for each grandchild and one separate one for Colin. Colin's flower keeps an eye on the grandchildren and it's just something I like to do every year. The appeal is such a lovely idea and is one I'm glad the hospice does.”

On how we cared for Colin, Carol added: “The Kirkwood were amazing with Colin. They cared for him and the whole family so well. Coalin loved to look out into the garden at Dalton. The nurses were just amazing.

“One time I remember a nurse going out to the local shop to specifically buy him some jelly. He loved the stuff but The Kirkwood had none in the kitchen and I couldn't believe the nurse went out of her way to buy him some.”

“Colin's humour and kindness will never be forgotten and again I thank The Kirkwood for the care they provided him right to the very end. I've done The Kirkwood Memory walk in memory of Colin, but the Sunflower Memories appeal will always be close to my heart.”

To dedicate a Sunflower to someone you love, click HERE. 

To find out more about our appeal click HERE.