The winter is fast approaching, and here at Nottinghamshire Hospice we’re turning our attention to our yearly moment of reflection and remembrance: Light Up A Life.

It’s when you can choose to shine a light on the life of someone you love, by giving in their memory. Donations made through Light Up A Life ensure we can continue to care for others dying from incurable illnesses in Nottinghamshire.

We recently spoke to Jacqui, a supporter who has regularly donated to Light Up A Life ever since we cared for her mum Margaret, who died of dementia over ten years ago.

Jacqui’s mum, Margaret

She told us about the care we offered her mum, and how it helped during a very difficult time: “My Dad, then nearly 90, was mum’s primary carer, supported by myself and my sisters. Mum always knew who we were although the names got mixed up sometimes. The only person whose name she never got wrong was my Dad’s – her Jack.

“We arranged for some residential respite care to give my father a rest, but Mum found it impossible to settle away from the people and home that she loved, so we made the decision to have her nursed at home.

“Her condition deteriorated, and she became bedridden. When we were able to secure overnight care from Nottinghamshire Hospice, we knew that she would be safe and well looked after.”

Giving back to the Hospice

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.

Jacqui also explained why her experience of the Hospice led her to give regularly: “The Light Up A Life campaign is an initiative that I always support. Christmas is a time for reflection and looking back to the people we’ve lost. It’s good to turn these thoughts into something positive.”

Help others like Jacqui and Margaret

Make a donation to our Light Up A Life appeal today, and you’ll help us be there for others with incurable illnesses – as a shining light during long, winter nights

We will add your dedication as a star on our ‘Night Sky’ dedication wall, which will proudly be on display at the Hospice throughout November and December, and also an online memorial wall.

You’re welcome to view your dedications either by visiting our website, or dropping by the Hospice to talk to us. We are also holding remembrance events where you can join others in a moment of reflection – we’d love for you to come along.