“What they do is far more than a job”
The family of a woman who died in January 2024 at the age of 67, have hailed the care they received from the staff, whom they call angels, working at the hospice.
Sheila King was a beloved wife, mother and grandmother; family was everything to her and she adored every moment spent with those she loved most. She’s been described as having been a witty and lively soul who took immense pride in her garden and loved to travel.
From Gawleys Gate, near Lurgan, Sheila was diagnosed with cancer in March 2022. She faced this diagnosis with great strength, remaining positive and full of humour throughout her illness. In November 2023, as her condition deteriorated, Sheila was admitted to Evora Hospice.
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Sheila’s daughter, Danielle, said: “We were met with warmth, compassion and professionalism from the moment we arrived. mum’s pain was managed with great care, and she was made as comfortable as possible. The support and kindness shown by every member of the hospice team brought our family comfort at a very difficult time, and we will always be deeply grateful.
“The doctors and nurses kept us informed and involved in every step of mum’s care and the complementary therapy team, who provided reflexology treatment, helped mum relax and find comfort. But it wasn’t just the medical teams that left such a strong impression.
“From reception to housekeeping, everyone went out of their way to make mum comfortable and our family feel at home. The smallest gestures brought joy in the hardest times. A cup of tea, a kind word, a smile and a joke. It all meant the world to us and to mum.”
Sheila passed away on the 28th of January 2024 at the age of 67.
As the holiday season gets underway, Evora Hospice has launched its Light Up a Life campaign, the annual remembrance ceremony where families, friends and supporters come together to celebrate the lives of loved ones who have passed away.
The Rogers family recall celebrating their mum’s final Christmas in hospice.
“We celebrated mum’s final Christmas in Evora hospice,” Danielle added.
“The staff made it deeply special. Mum’s room was decorated with lights and personal touches that give us beautiful lasting memories. It’s why this campaign, and this time of year, means so much to us. It brings us together with the whole community to keep the memories of those we love alive.
“What they do is far more than a job. When people ask me about Evora Hospice I always say “If angels walk among us, they are all working at Evora Hospice, as each and every one of them are angels on earth” and we hope that by reflecting on mum’s life and our connection to the hospice we can help raise awareness of the care and compassion Evora provides to families across the community.”
Sheila’s family are helping shine a light on hospice care this Christmas by taking part in the Evora Hospice Light Up a Life ceremony to remember and celebrate the lives of loved ones who have passed away.
Supported by Gordons Chemists and Killowen Contracts, the Light Up a Life event has become one of the most cherished gatherings of the year in the community.
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