A HUSBAND who lost his wife to cancer just two months after she was diagnosed has been inspired to launch this year’s Light up a Life Campaign for the Hospice of the Good Shepherd.
Tony Coleclough from Stanney Grange in Ellesmere Port, whose wife Paula died in August after being cared for by the hospice, will be the first person to dedicate a light in memory of a loved one this Christmas.
He said: “Paula and I were married for nine years and had been so happy. She was always the life and soul of the party and enjoyed having a good laugh, both at home and at Morrison’s where she worked.
“Paula was so proud of her son Mark and daughter Sarah, and last year became a grandmother for the first time.
“Imagine how devastated we both were when Paula was diagnosed with cancer in June this year, as she was only 43.
“Despite her illness she still kept her sense of fun and optimism. She felt at home straight away in the hospice, finding it a great comfort.
“On sunny days Paula was able to enjoy being outside as the nurses pushed her bed into the central courtyard. We spoke about our holidays together and the many good times we had been lucky to share.
“Paula and I said our final goodbye in August when she passed away.”
Tony added: “I cannot thank the hospice enough for the kindness that was given to us all. I will never forget how Paula received the best possible care and it was free of charge.
“I am just hoping that people from Ellesmere Port will think of their own loved ones this Christmas and light up a life in their memory.”
To Light up a Life, simply fill out the form opposite and send it to the Hospice Freepost address: Light up a Life, Freepost, RRKU-JZUA-GATX, Gordon Lane, Backford, Chester CH2 4DG.
