In November 2016, Mum was diagnosed with Bowel Cancer. This came as a huge shock to the family as she was so fit and seemingly well. In true Chrissie spirit, she said 'I WILL fight this', and boy did she. Through uncontrollable complications not long after diagnosis, the tumour perforated leaving her with Stage 4, palliative Cancer. As she endured countless rounds of gruelling chemo and radio for 3 years, she continued to go back to work and prove to everyone how strong she truly was. 

In January 2020, Mum's pain worsened as the tumour attacked the nerves in her legs, weakening her greatly. This was extremely difficult for Mum to accept as she slowly became less able to do the things she loved most. Nightingale House took care of Mum on so many occasions, giving her a safe, comfortable space whilst her pain was managed, and offered an excellent physio service as her body's ability changed. Even through the height of the COVID pandemic, they were able to look after her for us, allowing us much needed visits when it seemed it wouldn't be possible.

July 16th was a day we knew would come, but didn't think would be so soon. We received the news that Mum's Cancer had spread to her lungs and liver, and it was now only a matter of time that we had left together. Our wonderful, happy, beautiful family was going to be torn apart and our lives changed forever. 

A wonderful Nightingale bereavement counsellor was able to take our calls and help us prepare for this occasion, and we truly believe we would not have been able to cope as well as we have without her. She encouraged the difficult conversations and gave us strength when we needed it the most. 

Very peacefully with Niamh, Dad (Brian) and I (Maisie) by her side, Mum passed on August 27th after the most incredible, positive and strong fight we have ever seen. Nothing let Mum get her down, she laughed, joked and smiled through it all. She was the light of our lives. We miss her greatly but will go through life with her strength in our veins.

Nightingale is funded mostly by donations, and especially after the past 6 months, they really need our help. Please give whatever you can to support this incredible Hospice to help other families like ours, every donation will go to a Tribute Fund set up in Mum's name at Nightingale. 

Thank you for all of your support through this extremely difficult time.

Brian, Maisie and Niamh x