You may remember that on the 24th of October last year, our Keith passed away, just weeks after being taken ill. He died from lung cancer and Leptomeningeal disease, a rare small cell cancer that affects the membrane around the brain. Even up until the day before he was taken to hospital, Keith seemed perfectly well.

Leptomeningeal disease is a swift, aggressive and cruel. Keith was first taken to hospital after having a seizure and he continued to have them in hospital, during his short stay back at home and later at the hospice. Each seizure brought confusion, distress and the further deterioration of Keith’s health.  Thankfully the nature of the illness meant that he was largely unaware of the circumstances and did not suffer as much as he might.  Although the illness affected his short-term memory, we were still able to enjoy Dad’s sense of humour, brilliant sense of fun and his music in that time.

We continue to feel totally indebted to all of the staff at Hospice Care at Home and the Exeter Hospice, Searle House. They all showed such unwavering commitment to Keith’s needs and wellbeing, extending that support to us at every turn. This all would have been a great deal harder without them. They went above and beyond.

Hospiscare, Exeter is a local charity which relies on donations to maintain such a high quality of care. As a family, we are taking part in the Hospiscare ‘Marathon in a Month’ but in just one week! Gill, Ellen, Joel, Eli, Martin, Harry and Ben (plus the dogs!) will be walking some of Keith’s favourite walks in his memory and with love in our hearts. The week of walking coincides with what would have been Keith’s birthday and the first anniversary of his death. Please support us in donating, of whatever size, for Hospiscare in his name. 

As a family we are still grieving, still unable to truly comprehend the loss of a man who was the most wonderful Husband, Father, Grandad and friend. Keith was truly a brilliant person, full of love, kindness and wisdom. He was endlessly supportive of his family, friends and the local community. We will always, always miss him.