David will be supporting Light Up a Life for the first time this year in memory of his wife, Charlotte.

Charlotte and David were happily married for 25 years and raised two children together. David said “I was blessed to have loved and lived a life with my best friend and wife, Charlotte. We were life partners and built together an amazing and loving family.”

In March 2024, following several health complications, Charlotte received the devastating news that she had a cancerous brain tumour and was given just months to live.

By April, Charlotte needed more care and was brought to her favourite place in the world – home. David recalls “Despite the circumstances, we were together, which was Charlotte’s motto in life. She would often say to me ‘it doesn’t matter where we are – as long as we are together’”

Hospice in Your Home – a lifeline

David continues; “I sat up with Charlotte most nights to ensure she was comfortable. This soon became extremely tiring, and we knew as a family, we couldn’t do it all. Extra support was vital for our own wellbeing, not just Charlotte’s.

“The palliative care team told us about Nottinghamshire Hospice. I didn’t realise the level of support they could provide for our family.

“Nottinghamshire Hospice nurses were a lifeline for me. It was not long before they knew the sound of my voice when they answered my call in the middle of the night, and came without question to help make Charlotte comfortable.”

David continues “They all loved coming to sit with Charlotte, she had a beautiful heart and wonderful kindness right to the end of her life, she made them laugh and kept them talking most of the night. I was blissfully unaware of these conversations, however, as having the nurses there meant I could rest and get much needed sleep.”

“My children and I will be forever grateful for the support provided by the Hospice. It was such a difficult time for our family, and the warmth given to us will never be forgotten.”

Help others like David and Charlotte

Our care is special and is a lifeline for people caring for loved ones at the end of their life. We offer relief in their darkest moments and help more people die at home surrounded by home comforts and loved ones.

Please consider a donation to our Light Up a Life appeal. Your kindness today will bring light and warmth to a family facing the toughest of times.

We will add your dedication as a star on our virtual ‘Night Sky’, which you can view here.

New for 2025 – Memory Lanterns

This year, you can also choose to have a special lantern to light in their memory. Light yours at home or join us at our annual Light Up a Life event, where you can join others in a moment of reflection.