'The right care at the right time': How this hospice helps Castleford mum find comfort and dignity
At one of the most difficult moments in life, having the right care makes all the difference.
For Poppy Williams and her family, The Prince of Wales Hospice first felt frightening, but soon became a place where they felt safe, supported and cared for in ways they never expected.
Poppy lives in Castleford with her two sons, Jack,12, and Harry, 16.
When she was told her cancer was terminal and she may only have weeks to live, the news was devastating.
She said when hospice care was suggested, it frightened her.
But after arriving at the hospice, she said: “I actually felt more alive here”.
Before going to the hospice, Poppy met one of the hospice team at her home for a counselling session, offering her reassurance and guidance at a time when they needed it most.
Poppy quickly realised the hospice was not what she had imagined. Instead, she found a place where people listened, took their time and cared deeply about the smallest details.
“When I came in, I was speechless,” she said.
“The experience from the very first moment was amazing.
“They never rush you. It’s the little things that mean so much.
“Whatever I ask for, they say yes. And you can tell their kindness is genuine.
“The professionalism is outstanding.
“They care with such dignity, and it never feels clinical. It feels like being with friends. I’ve worked in nursing roles in lots of places, but this is the first place in my life where I’ve seen care this personalised.”
Poppy enjoys arts and crafts and has been decorating memory bottles and creating a memory box during her stay.
The team have also helped create special family moments, organising a games afternoon and a movie night with her sons, ordering pizza.
Poppy was also able to celebrate her son’s birthday on April 11 - a milestone she was determined to reach and one that meant the world to her and her family.
For Poppy and her family, the hospice became more than a place of care. It became the place where they found the support, comfort and dignity they needed most – at exactly the right time.