Manchester Half Marathon 2025 in aid of Mid Cheshire Hospitals

On January 13th, 2025, my beloved nan (Eileen) passed away, leaving behind a legacy of love, warmth, and cherished memories. Her final days, though filled with sadness, were made more bearable by the exceptional care she received from the End of Life Appeal team and the SWAN team at Mid Cheshire Hospitals (Leighton). These dedicated teams provided not only physical care but also emotional support, ensuring that my nan's passing was as peaceful and dignified as possible.

The "End of Life Care Appeal" by Mid Cheshire Hospitals Charity aims to improve the comfort and support for patients nearing the end of their lives and their loved ones who are with them at the very end. It focuses on providing comfort packs, sleeper chairs, and creating calm spaces for families to be close to their loved ones. As a family we had first hand experience of how the charity’s work really does make the world of difference as we were by Nans bedside for over 50 hours. The appeal also seeks to enhance facilities like memory boxes, 'just in case' bags for at-home care, and dedicated outdoor spaces for fresh air. The initiative also supports the SWAN model of care, offering trained volunteers and improvements in hospital environments, with a focus on creating lasting memories and providing emotional support. None of these crucial services would be possible without charitable funding.

“When someone is cared for in hospital or at home at the end of their life, we only have one chance to get it right”
- A quote from the End of life Care Appeal.

From the moment it became clear that my nan was approaching the end of her life, the End of Life Appeal team stepped in to provide compassionate care. They ensured that she was as comfortable as possible and that any pain or discomfort was managed effectively. Their presence was a reassuring constant, offering support to both my nan and our family during this difficult time. It was evident that they were not only focused on medical care but also on ensuring her emotional well-being. They were always ready to answer questions, provide guidance, and offer a comforting hand when needed.

Similarly, the ward team at Leighton played a crucial role in my nan's care. The SWAN model of care support went beyond medical treatment—they made sure that my nan’s wishes were respected and that her dignity was maintained. The team worked seamlessly with the End of Life Appeal team, and together, they created an environment where my nan could spend her last days and hours in peace, surrounded by family and free from unnecessary distress.

As a family, we are deeply grateful for the compassionate care that Nan received. The End of Life Appeal team and SWAN team’s efforts ensured that her final moments were as comfortable and peaceful as possible, providing a sense of solace to us during a time of immense sadness. Their kindness and professionalism will not be forgotten, and we will always carry with us the memory of the care they provided to our family in such a difficult time.

On the 12th October 2025 I will be taking part in the Manchester half marathon in aid of this amazing charity which is very close to my heart, like as previously mentioned the ‘End of Life Care Appeal’ service is solely funded by charitable donations. Please give what you can to ensure this service can keep being provided to those that need it most.

Thank you in advance ❤️
Olivia x

Please find more information about the End of Life Care appeal via the link below:
mchcharity.org/appeals/end-of-life-care-appeal/