At Harlington Hospice and Michael Sobell House, we believe in focusing on what truly matters to each person who comes into our care. For Debbie, this meant recognising her incredible achievement and ensuring she had the chance to celebrate it with the people who loved her most.
“Happy go lucky, funny, scatty, lovable”
Debbie came to our Inpatient Unit in August as we supported her with cancer symptoms. She was described by her sister Suzie as:
“Happy go lucky, funny, scatty, lovable, so very kind and caring, selfless, unpredictable at times, different in many ways, unique and creative.”
These words paint a picture of someone who was deeply loved and who brought light and laughter to those around her.
A passion for learning
In 2022, at the age of 54, Debbie began studying Comedy Script Writing at Falmouth University. She worked hard and forged close friendships with her fellow students. Two years later, in the summer of 2024, Debbie achieved her Master’s degree with Distinction.
Her fellow students – Phil, Rachel, and Ali – came to visit her at the Hospice only a few weeks ago, a sign of the deep connections she made throughout her studies.
“We wanted Debbie to have the chance to celebrate her incredible achievement in a way that was truly hers.”
Creating a graduation day
Sadly, Debbie missed her university graduation ceremony in 2023 as it clashed with chemotherapy treatment. We felt strongly that this special moment deserved to be marked, so at short notice our team created a celebration in the Hospice garden.
We transformed the gazebo into a graduation space. Debbie wore her gown and mortar board, held her graduation certificate, and was surrounded by her Mum, her sister Suzie, and members of our team. There was tea, cake, prosecco, and plenty of smiles.
A memory to cherish
Debbie’s spirits were lifted by the day, and the joy of that celebration has created a memory her family and friends will hold close. Debbie died just a few weeks later, but her graduation ceremony remains a powerful reminder of her determination, her creativity, and her ability to inspire those around her.
More than medical care
We know that care is about so much more than medical support. It is about honouring people’s lives, achievements, and relationships. Debbie’s story is one of many that show how meaningful moments can be created, even at the most difficult of times.
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Recent news and stories
Below are a selection of stories and memories documented by the teams at Harlington Hospice and Michael Sobell House.
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At Harlington Hospice and Michael Sobell House, we believe in focusing on what truly matters to each person who comes
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