'I'm an end-of-life carer and patients always have the same last wish at Christmas'
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Fulfilling people's final Christmas wishes is one of the most rewarding parts of being an end-of-life carer, palliative nurses tell The Mirror. Caring for somebody on their deathbed can be incredibly difficult and emotional, but it's a hugely important role that the healthcare staff at Sue Ryder know only too well. The nationwide charity supports people approaching the end of their lives and those living with grief to access the vital support they need.
During the festive period, their jobs can be even more challenging as patients feel apprehensive about spending their last Christmas with family and friends. To share the reality of being an end-of-life carer at this time of year, we spoke to the charity's staff about their biggest challenges and memorable moments...
Ward manager Sophie Brew, 35, told The Mirror: "Christmas can be a difficult time of year in the hospice as patients are often fearful or aware that this could be their last one. It can bring out a lot of emotions and sadness in both patients and their families as they reflect on all of the happy times they have shared.".
Sophie explained that Christmas in the hospice is tailored to each individual family, and staff go "above and beyond" to respect their final wishes. "We provide gifts for all our patients, Christmas lunch for visitors, and support families in creating everlasting memories with their loved ones," she said.
"Each patient is gifted a small Christmas tree for their rooms throughout December and families often like to take these trees home and plant them in memory of their loved ones." Sophie explained that some patients have personal requests that staff members try their hardest to fulfil.
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