18 Jun 2026 Patient and Family Stories

Chloe’s Story: “I Will Always Hold a Place for The Kirkwood in My Heart”

When a loved one is diagnosed with a life limiting illness, families are often faced with an overwhelming mix of emotions, uncertainty and heartbreak. During these difficult moments, having the right support can make all the difference, helping patients and those closest to them create precious memories together.

For Chloe Brookes and her family, that support came from The Kirkwood. Following the admission of her mum, Jacqueline, to The Kirkwood's In-Patient Unit in September 2024, Chloe experienced first-hand the care, compassion and reassurance that the hospice provides to local families when they need it most.
 
In September 2024, Chloe's mum, Jacqueline, was admitted to The Kirkwood's In-Patient Unit. Like many families facing end of life care for the first time, Chloe was overwhelmed by the news and unsure of what to expect.
 
Reflecting on that time, Chloe said: "When I first heard the news, I was absolutely in shock and heartbroken because you never think it's going to be one of your own until it happens."
 
Despite her fears, Chloe says the support her mum and family received from the moment they arrived made a lasting difference: "My mum was made so comfortable on her first day. The care given to my mum and our family was absolutely amazing, and I will always hold a place for The Kirkwood in my heart."
 
Having never experienced hospice care before, Chloe admits she felt nervous and uncertain when she first arrived: "When I was entered The Kirkwood’s Dalton site, I was beyond nervous and heartbroken. I didn't know how hospices worked because I'd never had to go through this before. The nurses and doctors were all reassuring and always there if you needed them."
 
She added: "At times I felt some of my questions were silly, but I was reassured by staff that no questions are silly, and they would always try their best to give answers. Once I understood how the hospice worked, it made it easier for me and my family. I'm so thankful for the care and compassion that was shown."

 

Chloe believes The Kirkwood's support gave her family precious time together during Jacqueline's final days: "I think The Kirkwood is so important to many people, whatever situation they may need support for. My mum's stay made her last days precious, protected and so very important for the family and friends who adored her."
 
She continued: "Being able to spend as much time as we could with her, no matter the time, meant everything. I will treasure the time I got with my mum in those moments thanks to The Kirkwood forever. Without The Kirkwood and the amazing support, things would have been a lot different for the family and close friends."
 
Wanting to give something back, Chloe took part in The Kirkwood's Starlight Walk in 2025, raising funds to help ensure other families can receive the same support she experienced.
Chloe said: "In 2025, I did The Kirkwood Starlight Walk to raise money. Although I don't think I could ever repay all the amazing staff and volunteers, I will continue to raise money for The Kirkwood wherever I can. If it means The Kirkwood can continue helping families and patients, then I'm all for the fundraising events and any other ways I can contribute."
 
As she reflects on her family's journey, Chloe has a heartfelt message for everyone who helped care for Jacqueline and support her loved ones through their grief: "I want to say a massive thank you to all the staff, volunteers and counsellors who help families and guide you through their grief while supporting them every step of the way. I'm so thankful my mum was able to spend her last days with The Kirkwood, where she was comfortable and surrounded by love from her family. I thank the whole of The Kirkwood so, so much."
 
Stories like Chloe's demonstrate the lasting impact that compassionate hospice care can have on patients and their loved ones. Thanks to the generosity of local supporters, The Kirkwood can continue providing specialist care, comfort and support to people living with life limiting illnesses, and their families, across Kirklees.

We want to keep supporting as many people like Chloe and her family, please help us do that by making a regular donation to our charity by clicking HERE.