6 Feb 2025 Patient and Family Stories

How The Kirkwood Gave Barbara Comfort, Care, and Hope

For many people, a hospice is often associated with the end of life, a place of sadness and uncertainty. But for 84-year-old Barbara Hirst, The Kirkwood became something entirely different: a place of hope, warmth, and outstanding care. After spending six weeks in hospital, struggling with breathlessness, swelling, and loss of appetite, Barbara was moved to The Kirkwood’s In-Patient Unit for palliative care. What happened next was a remarkable transformation, not just physically but emotionally too. With the unwavering support of her close knit family and the dedicated team from The Kirkwood, Barbara rediscovered her appetite, found comfort in music, and most importantly, felt valued and cared for in a way she never expected. This is her story.

When Barbara Hirst arrived on The Kirkwood's In-Patient Unit, she had already endured a long and difficult journey. After spending six weeks in hospital, battling breathlessness, severe swelling in her legs and arms, and a complete loss of appetite, she was transferred to The Kirkwood for palliative care. Her family had braced themselves for the worst as she had been diagnosed with lung cancer over the past three years. 

“I had heard about The Kirkwood before, and I knew it was a good place, a charity that really cared for people," Barbara recalled. "But I didn’t realise just how incredible it was until I came here myself. It’s fantastic. They do absolutely everything for you, things you wouldn’t even think of. For example, they brought me an iPod with my favourite music on it. I can sit and listen to my favourite songs, and it’s just so thoughtful. Little touches like that make all the difference. I feel so well looked after.”

Barbara’s family noticed an improvement in her almost immediately after she arrived on the In-Patient Unit. Her daughter-in-law, Melody Hirst, explained: “Her symptoms, illness and treatment were complicated, and after many weeks of investigations, treatment and care, the consultants and medical team decided that there was nothing more they could do for her, and palliative care was required going forward. At this point, Barbara was very ill, she was not eating and drinking really. As a family, we were bracing ourselves for the worst." 

“But from the moment she was cared for by The Kirkwood, we noticed a slight improvement. She arrived on a Thursday afternoon, and by Monday, she had begun eating a little, and her mental health and demeanour had changed for the better. It seemed the longer she stayed, the better she felt."

Barbara herself recognised the difference in her condition, particularly in contrast to her experience in hospital: “There’s no comparison between The Kirkwood and the hospital.” she said. 

She continued: “When I was in hospital, I spent a lot of time in a single room. You’d think that sounds nice, having your own space, but it wasn’t. I was just staring at a plain wall all day, with no one around. It was very lonely. Coming here has been completely different, the environment is brighter, friendlier, and more welcoming. It doesn’t feel like a hospital or a hospice, it feels like a place where you can actually live and enjoy yourself.”

Her appetite also improved, something she had struggled with for months. “Before I came here, when I was in hospital, I wasn’t eating at all. I was just living on liquids. I’d lost my appetite completely. But here, they’ve helped me get it back. Now I’m eating proper meals again, pizzas and all sorts! It’s been such a turnaround. I didn’t realise how much I was missing until I came here. The care they provide really has made a difference to me.”

Barbara’s family were deeply grateful for the care and compassion she received, Melody said: “Every single member of the team, be it staff or volunteer, is definitely part of The Kirkwood family and clearly loves being there. The Kirkwood isn’t just patient-focused; it’s for all the family and loved ones too.

“The social worker was incredible and very patient focused. She was on the ball and kept us all informed of the situation at all times. A wonderful and caring person. Even when there were delays in moving Barbara to a care home, at no point did we or Barbara feel it was a problem. She continued to receive the best care from The Kirkwood staff."

Barbara’s family visited regularly, something she cherished deeply. “I’m lucky to have a very close family, and someone’s always visiting me. They’ve been so supportive throughout this whole time, and I know they’re happy that I’m here at The Kirkwood. They can see that I’m comfortable and well cared for, which I think puts their minds at ease. We’re a very close knit family, and we discuss everything, so it’s important for them to see how well I’m doing here.”

Although Barbara’s condition stabilised, she knew that returning home would no longer be possible. She made the decision to move into a care home: “I know I won’t be going home after this. I’ve accepted that it wouldn’t work for me anymore. Instead, I’ll be moving to a care home. I feel ready for that, it’s the right decision for me, and I’m okay with it. I feel reassured knowing I’ve had such wonderful care here at The Kirkwood, and I trust that I’ll be looked after in the same way wherever I go next.”

The Kirkwood had not only provided outstanding medical and emotional support but had given Barbara the dignity, care, and quality of life she deserved.

She said: “If anyone gets the chance to come to The Kirkwood, I’d say don’t hesitate, take it. You won’t find anything better than the care and kindness you get here. It’s not just about the medical care, it’s the way they look after you as a person, making sure you feel valued and comfortable. It’s hard to put into words just how much of a difference it’s made to me. I never expected to feel so well looked after, but it’s been wonderful.”

The Kirkwood is an integral part of the local community, offering vital care and support to people like Barbara and their families. However, The Kirkwood is facing a financial crisis, putting its ability to continue providing this essential care at risk.

Melody, a long time supporter of The Kirkwood, understands the importance of fundraising and donations to keep the hospice running.

She said: “For many years, The Kirkwood has been my favoured charity. I have fundraised for the charity by running half marathons, donating to fundraising efforts, and supporting their charity shops. This began before I had any personal experience of The Kirkwood and was based on reputation alone. When I first set foot in the hospice, I knew immediately that it was all worth it. Such a warm, calm, and friendly atmosphere from the reception area and right throughout.”

If you want to help ensure The Kirkwood can continue to care for people like Barbara, please consider making a regular donation. Your support will help provide comfort, dignity, and outstanding care to those who need it most.

To make a donation and support The Kirkwood’s vital work, please click HERE!

Your generosity can make all the difference.