Husband's hospice pledge after docs told wife she had only six weeks to live
Norman Rennie and his beloved wife Linda were together for 40 years - before Linda's devastating cancer diagnosis.
A husband has spoken of his admiration for the work of the Ayrshire Hospice - after they helped his wife following a devastating cancer diagnosis.
Norman Rennie and his beloved wife Linda were together for 40 years - before doctors told her she only had six weeks to live.
But in the weeks leading up to Linda's passing, Norman was supported to the hilt by the staff at the Ayrshire Hospice.
Now Norman is paying a little back and pledged to support the organisation's Spring Appeal by sharing Linda's story.
Linda, who died in 2016, was cared for in her home by the Ayrshire Hospice.
Norman, who worked in hospitality across Ayrshire for 60 years, including Seamill Hydro for 25 years, takes up the story.
He recalled: 'During my time in Seamill, we hosted the Autumn Ball, and that's when I started to become more aware of what the Hospice is about.'
In April 2016, Norman and Linda received the devastating news that she had a life-shortening illness – with doctors giving the couple six weeks left together.
Norman said: 'How do you go home and make the best of six weeks when somebody's dying? We were together for 40 years– you live to make sure the other person has the best.'
Following her diagnosis, Norman and Linda returned home, where Norman was prepared to look after Linda himself. Then the Ayrshire Hospice began helping Norman to care for Linda – and, crucially, to support Norman too.
He said: 'When the Hospice came to the house, they said they were coming to see Linda – but they just as concerned about the person that would be left behind.
'Simple things, like the Complementary Therapists coming in to massage her feet. The cancer had spread everywhere, but your feet are the most sensitive area – and that really helped her.
'When they were finished with Linda, they would give me a massage too – so that I could give my best to Linda. And even after she died, they continued that for three weeks. They came and gave me massages at home.
'I remember one day – it was lovely outside and I'd just cut the grass – the therapist said 'I think we'll take the bed outside today.' I'll always remember that.'
Since Linda's death, Norman has continued to tirelessly support the Ayrshire Hospice as an ambassador, volunteer and most recently taking part in the 'Full Monty' fundraising event, which raised more than £38,000.
'Why do we support the Ayrshire Hospice? Because the Hospice will support us,' Norman said. 'They were there for me and Linda – and now it's my turn to do what I can.'
Lucy Glendinning, Senior Fundraiser (Individual Giving), added: 'Norman's story is another example of the care and support the Ayrshire Hospice provides to those who need us across Ayrshire and Arran - whether it be in our In-patient Unit or in the community, our person-centred care for patients and their loved ones in the environment of their choosing.'
To read more about Norman's journey with the Hospice, and to support this year's Spring Appeal, go to www.ayrshirehospice.org or call the Ayrshire Hospice's Fundraising Team on 01292 288 488 to donate. Each and every penny is gratefully received by the team.
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