David Quigley received end of life care from Birmingham Hospice, enabling him to create precious memories with his beloved family.
David was supported with pain management at home and was later cared for in the hospice’s Inpatient Unit, particularly in the Family Centre.
The Family Centre is a private space off the ward where families can focus on being together, while allowing the patient to still receive the necessary care.
Amanda, David’s sister, said: The hospice was a big part of our lives for the last part of David’s. He was cared for in the Family Centre, so we spent the majority of our time there.
“We felt a real sense of compassion and care, like we were all just as important as David.”
She added: “During David’s last hospital appointment, we realised we were in the last leg of the journey and he needed end of life care.
“He was transferred from the hospital to the hospice and there was an immediate difference. We were able to come and go as we pleased, and there was always someone on hand for whatever David needed.
“He was comfortable so quickly.”
The family decided to host a fundraiser for the hospice and on Sunday 16 June, David’s friends, family and loved ones attended a charity cricket match at Romsley & Hunnington Cricket Club.
The family chose to host a cricket match in David’s memory due to his love for the sport since childhood, when he would play with his dad. The cricket club has nods to David around the pitch, with a memorial bench, his framed shirt in the clubhouse bar and a renamed scorebox in his honour.
The cricket-inspired fundraiser included a raffle, tombola and a talk from Hospice Champion, Richard Green, who attended to share why fundraising is so vital for the hospice.
When speaking of the day, Amanda said: “The atmosphere was amazing with David’s two former teams playing in his memory. The number of people that came was just incredible and their generosity was lovely.
“We had speeches and tributes for David, which were very emotional.
“A special moment for me was our dad playing in the memorial game. He came out of retirement for the game and ended up hitting the winning run. He was so overcome with pride and emotion, and he dedicated his win to the sky. It was very special.”
In total, the charity match raised a terrific £3052.60 for Birmingham Hospice. This incredible amount could pay for over five days of nursing support in our Inpatient Units, offering specialist care from our team of medical experts.
A BIG thank you and well done to Amanda, Adam and every person involved for raising such a fantastic total.
A special thanks also goes to Matt from Hagley Sports for providing branded shirts for the day.
The funding crisis facing the hospice means the charity needs support like this now more than ever.
Amanda’s advice for anyone thinking of fundraising for Birmingham Hospice is: “Even if you have not had direct involvement with hospice care, you can still see how invaluable it is. I don’t know what my family would have done without it.
“The compassion, care and empathy shown are so important. When David was admitted a nurse said to us, “it’s time for you to be a family now – leave the care to us,” and we’re so grateful.
“Please support Birmingham Hospice if you can.”
To find out more about our crisis appeal and how your support makes a difference, please visit: Birmingham Hospice Crisis Appeal – Birmingham Hospice
