6 Feb 2025 Community

Stephen Hardy: A Lifelong Supporter of The Kirkwood’s Big K Lottery

For 75 year-old Stephen Hardy, supporting The Kirkwood has been a long standing commitment, one that has spanned over two decades. As one of the very first people to sign up for The Kirkwood’s Big K Lottery in 2000, Stephen has continued to play every month since, making him one of the longest standing participants.

Through his unwavering support, he has also experienced first hand the impact of hospice care. His mother, Audrey Whittaker, was cared for on The Kirkwood’s inpatient unit, and more recently, his wife received hospice care in Wakefield.

“I’ve been involved with The Kirkwood’s Big K Lottery ever since it started back in 2000,” Stephen shared. “In fact, I’ve won it twice over the years! I first signed up because my mother, Audrey Whittaker, was cared for on the inpatient unit here. I saw first hand the outstanding care they provided, and I honestly can’t imagine where we’d be without a place like this.”

Stephen originally joined the lottery as a way to give back. At the time, he was running a car and van sales business with a catering side that provided food for up to 100 people at a time. His contributions through the lottery became a steady and easy way to ensure continued support for The Kirkwood.

“I decided to support The Kirkwood by donating each month through its lottery. Even after selling the businesses and later retiring, I never stopped my contributions. I believe every penny goes towards helping real people in a local setting, which is exactly what I want.”

Hospices have played an important role in Stephen’s life. After seeing his mother cared for by The Kirkwood, he knew the value of expert, compassionate end-of-life care. But when his wife passed away last year, it reinforced just how vital these services are.

“My wife died last year, and although I had hoped she might receive end-of-life care by The Kirkwood, in the end, she was cared for in Wakefield. Regardless, I know that hospices whether here or in Wakefield, provide the same kind of expert, compassionate care that patients and families desperately need.”

Stephen saw the difference between hospice care and hospital care when his wife was first admitted to Pinderfields Hospital, which was under immense pressure.

“Pinderfields Hospital did what they could, but it was clearly overstretched, so I was enormously relieved when she was transferred. She spent her last four days in a hospice bed, in peace and comfort. I think that’s what everyone wants for their loved ones.”

Following the passing of his wife, Stephen found comfort in a bereavement support programme in Wakefield, which he attends fortnightly, alongside eight to ten others.

“Since my wife’s death, I’ve been attending a bereavement group, which has been such a help. You realise there are others in the same boat, so sharing experiences helps to ease the loneliness. It breaks the ice to chat with people who fully understand what you’ve been through. I’m not normally one to open up, but I find it really beneficial.”

Stephen understands that the word ‘hospice’ can be daunting for many, but he hopes to encourage others to see it for what it truly is, a place of comfort, dignity, and expert care.

“Some people get nervous about the word ‘hospice’, as if it automatically means they’re at the end of the line. I understand that fear, but I’d tell anyone who’s worried not to be. Hospices are all about support, comfort, and dignity, no one could be in safer hands.”

After more than 20 years of lottery support, Stephen has no plans to stop.

He said: “I’m proud I’ve been a part of The Kirkwood’s lottery from day one. I’ll keep it going for as long as I can because I know my monthly donation does genuine good. I’d recommend the Big K Lottery to anyone, especially those who want to see their money go where it’s truly needed.

"I’ve never regretted signing up, not for a moment, and I think anyone who learns more about what The Kirkwood does will understand just how important it is.”

Through the dedication of supporters like Stephen, The Kirkwood can continue to provide essential care for those who need it most. The Big K Lottery is a simple yet impactful way to help fund hospice services while giving players the chance to win. Every ticket sold supports patients, families, and carers across the community.

For Stephen, it’s more than just a lottery, it’s a way of giving back to a cause that truly matters.

Want to sign up yourself, click HERE and help to support families and patients across Kirklees.