Lighting up the darkest days

A common misconception of hospices is that they are a serious and gloomy place. The fact is, this couldn’t be further from the truth. One of the most remarkable things about Teesside Hospice is that as soon as you walk through the doors, the halls are filled with positivity, laughter and friendly faces. Everything you might need during a really difficult time.

From our wonderful team; made up of over 140 staff and 400 volunteers, to the pleasant surroundings, to the range of activities, we bring light to those darker days. The hospice is often a hive of activity, and over the past two months alone we have had visits from Alfie the duck and Lucky the pony, held ballet classes with Laud Ballet School, painted plant pots, and most recently brought the beach to the hospice!

Our beach day left everyone on a high note, with fish and chips, ice cream and lots of laughter (and sand!). One person told us: “We love doing things like this, people think we sit around talking about our illnesses all day, but it’s not like that; there’s always something fun going on.”

We encourage each individual to get involved with the activities, and have a positive focus on what they are able to do.

Earlier this month we welcomed 13 fantastic students through the National Citizen Service programme who raised £256 to clear and improve the hospice’s external bin area with paint, flowers and planters. Throughout the week the students also hosted a lovely afternoon tea for everyone to enjoy, and then partnered up with people in the day hospice to paint some plant pots together, which were later filled with soil and flowers.

For those in the hospice the painting was therapeutic, helping them to relax and exercise their muscles, alleviating some of their pain, while having a good chat and some laughs along the way!

Every day counts. It is so important for everyone at the hospice to make the most of each day, ensuring they receive the best possible care by creating experiences and memories that last forever.

At the heart of it, we want to show you how much we care; we are a positive, vibrant place that feels as close to home as possible. Unfortunately, many of you may have experienced a loved one with a life-limiting illness, and know just how important this is. This is something that we really focus on at the hospice, and we aim to bring as much light, fun and laughter to everyone’s days as we can.

We have many volunteering opportunities available. To find out more about how you can help, or for information about our services, please visit www.teessidehospice.org/become-volunteer

Thank you to everyone who has, and continues to support us. Without you, none of this would be possible.