"'Our' palliative care journey"

My husband Geoff, received the life-changing diagnosis of Grade 4 Glioblastoma in Oct 2025 and sadly passed away on 7th Jan 2026.

We experienced exceptional care during this time and in this context would like to thank the following members of NHSG staff:

Darren (SCN, ED) whose knowledge, experience and intuition allowed for through physical examination and requesting urgent head CT. I have no doubt had we been seen by different member of staff, we may have been advised to contact our GP.

And my thanks also to, Dr Allan (ED), who later delivered the devastating news of 'brain lesions' with care and compassion, going on to explain the potential management plan, taking time to call my son and explain clinical findings.

We received home visits from Ruth, Speech & Language Therapist, and Elaine, MacMillan Nurse, both of whom were exceptionally compassionate and delivered care beyond clinical need.

Our thanks also to Porter, David who escorted Geoff to and from his MRI appt, and who we continued to meet on our daily trips along the hospital corridors (for as long as Geoff was able to sit in wheelchair). David's exceptional friendly manner and ability to put patients at ease being evident on each occasion.

Geoff was cared for in Ward 114 for almost 8 weeks, where he received exceptional care. I would therefore like to extend my thanks to the following members of staff (and apologies if I have missed anyone):

Medical Staff: Dr Tan (ST3), Dr Abraham (CDF): both excelled in communication skills, whilst demonstrating comapssion.

SCN, Leanne: Leanne, you have fostered an incredibly positive working environment where the focus on team-working is evident. Thank you also for the introduction to Hospital Chaplain, Duncan.

Staff Nurses (day shift): Charlotte, Robyn, Fiona, Hannah, Laura & Emily: irrespective of whether assigned 'Geoff's clinical side of the ward', made every effort to visit each day to say hello, and acknowledge our presence.

Staff Nurses (night shift): Fiona and Stephanie. Having only met Fiona and Stephanie during Geoff's last 2 days of life, I remain forever grateful for their knowledge, care, compassion and intuition which allowed for myself and Geoff's sister to stay overnight and to be with him at the end of his journey .........

Oncology CNS: Karin: Karin became our advocate during Geoff's last 2 weeks of life when faced with very difficult discussions, and for which, I am very grateful.

Student Nurses: Emily & Ray, both of whom will make excellent trained nurses!

HCSW's: Fiona, Sehar, Kathleen & Bunloma (Boo): all delivered clinical care with compassion and patience, taking time to understand Geoff's needs when he lost the ability to communicate.

Domestic: Elaine & Friend's of Anchor Ward Assistant, Pam and Volunteer, Lisa. Pam & Lisa, your words of comfort meant so much, and I hope our donation continues to enrich care beyond clinical need for those diagnosed with cancer and that of their loved ones.

And finally, to the catering staff. Geoff certainly enjoyed his food in the first few weeks, with menus allowing an element of choice, including notification for those requiring help with meals (red tray). When he experienced a  decline in appetite and swallow reflex, the 'modified' options were appreciated.