BLOG: What does compassion mean to you?

For us, it’s the thoughtfulness that creates precious memories, and the kindness that helps people make the most of life, at the toughest time. Your compassion makes everything we do possible.

We asked people across our community what “compassion” means to them…

• “Compassion is helping patients experience as much as they’re able. That could mean organising a date night meal or family photoshoot, or using a VR headset to transport patients to their dream location.” Kirsty Hardicker, Nursing Team Leader
• “It’s about finding light through the clouds and helping to create happy memories. I remember a 92-year-old gentleman in the IPU who’d never had a McDonalds, so I went and got him a Happy Meal. He was over the moon!” Emma Grzelczyk, Business Manager – Care and Support Directorate
• “My parents’ motto is: ‘You don’t have to be rich, but you should try to be rich in your memories’. I wanted to help St Catherine’s create a special memory for a family, so me and my dad, a pilot, organised a sponsored helicopter ride. It meant so much to the family, and to us.” Saskia Lincoln, Miss Teen Preston 2023, Local supporter
• “We have an Amazon Wishlist with items to help brighten our patients’ days. Things like cameras, bird feeders or even video games consoles can help patients relax, create memories and feel at home.” Rosie Clear, Clinical Development Lead
• “I’ve seen how compassion helps people process their grief, especially by talking to others with lived experience of bereavement. It helps to normalise their feelings so they feel less isolated.” Peace Townsend, co-host,  Ribbleton Bereavement Café
• “It’s the little things. What is a hot chocolate and biscuit to anyone? It was a cherished experience for one family who felt at home together every evening that they visited their loved one.” Tracy Earley, Director of Nursing, Governance and AHPs
• “My heroes are my daddy, St Catherine’s, Tracy (Director of Nursing), and Molly (one of the therapy dogs). St Catherine’s gave daddy medicine so he could feel a bit better. And I liked the ice-cream.” Ruby Bamber, aged 6

Drawing by Ruby Bamber, aged 6: Happy memories with Mummy and Daddy at St Catherine’s Hospice or, as Ruby calls it, ‘The Butterfly House’. Also featuring her playmate Molly, our therapy dog.

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