"It was the summer of 2017 when our family was hit with the bombshell that stopped us all in our tracks. When my super fit and health-conscious 79-year-old father, who went to the gym three times a week, developed a cough.
Dad had never smoked, rarely drank and was a keen walker. But above all, loved to travel with my mum, his wife of over 50 years.
Nobody imagined for a moment that it might be cancer, but after antibiotics failed to do the trick, an X-ray showed a shadow on his lung.
His diagnosis was so unexpected
The cancer diagnosis was so unexpected. The cancer was so far advanced, there was no time for treatment, no time for tests or hospital visits, no hope. Despite his fit and active appearance, the cancer had spread like wildfire.
Family was really important to my father. He just wanted to be at home with us, and we wanted to take care of him. Fortunately, thanks to Treetops, it is what we achieved.
Our lives had been turned upside down
Daddy's health declined rapidly. My sister, Claire, and I moved back home, helping mum to provide around-the-clock care. The emotional and physical toll was immense.
In less than two weeks, our lives had been turned upside down. The call from Treetops offering us a Hospice at Home nurse overnight was literally like hearing from a guardian angel. The nurses were lovely. It was a lifeline.
Leaving Daddy in the capable hands of palliative care specialists allowed us to finally get some much-needed rest, knowing he was safe and comfortable.
Eighteen days after his devastating diagnosis, Daddy died peacefully at home.
Days filled with love and togetherness
Treetops support made an immeasurable difference for our family. Having the nurses visit each night allowed Daddy to stay at home, just as he wished.
Those precious eighteen days were filled with love and togetherness. It was wonderful that we were all at home with him when he died. This may not have been possible without the support of Treetops.
Thanks to Treetops, we are now able to look back on those difficult days with affection and comfort, knowing we were all together at home.
We had the support of a very special charity, which provided unwavering support during an incredibly tough time.