About me

Several years ago, I lost Jill, my wonderful sister, to Cancer. She was the youngest sibling of 3 and amazingly we never had a cross word. I helped her through every problem she had except the big one and sadly she died in my arms. 

I struggled for a few months, being the strong one in the family, supporting bereft parents, trying to explain to my 8 year old daughter how and why this had happened until one day I fell apart. I couldn't sleep thinking about the last vision of her, in pain, and whilst friends were wonderful, nothing helped until one day someone suggested I call the The Hospice Of St Francis in Berkhamsted for counselling.

A fabulous lady took me through the steps of recovery remembering the hour before Jill died, the day before, the week before until I could remember the laughter we used to share. One day I told myself I would pay the Hospice back for giving me back my life and helping me to see the good in everything and I continue to do so to this day.

I came to realise that I was so lucky to have spent 36 years with Jill in my life. I also believe that life is so precious that we must live every day and materialistic things just don't matter. People count, people are friends, no matter how much or how little time you have with them. So, it's taught me to care more, to listen, to have empathy and understanding, how not to judge, to accept everyone has their own take on life, and to respect differing points of view.

I do my utmost to help those in sadder moments. Not advise, just gentle suggestions and only when asked. Grief for a lost one means you cared for them, that they are in your hearts and are a precious part of your life which you can try to remember with happier moments. Never forgetting but remembering with love and happiness.

Providing pensions support for Dixons Stores Group, I attended several funerals every month, representing the company, sending floral tributes or sending donations to the charity of choice. 

When I left Dixons it was time to pay back the Hospice by volunteering, and I found I had time on my hands to deliver meals for the patients, helping them choose their dishes and encouraging them to eat when they weren't hungry.  Another important part of my role was encouraging relatives to eat when they might not feel like it, so they could remain strong.

The Hospice is like a five-star hotel, with the care and attention put into every meal prepared individually.  Helping the patients takes tact and persuasion, especially when they don't want to eat very much. 

My interactions with patients and their families, combined with the courses I’ve attended at the Hospice, such as Understanding Fear and Anxiety and End of Life Care, have provided me with valuable insights in supporting people in their most vulnerable times.

I support families and couples in creating thoughtful and bespoke Wedding and Funeral ceremonies across Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire and beyond.