Following Henry's second relapse he was referred to Demelza so he could access art therapy, anyone who knows Henry well knows that he loves to craft! He really enjoyed his sessions but sadly couldn’t participate in many due to so many inpatients admissions. Courtesy of Demelza we were able to attend the Danson Park fireworks, having a dedicated area away from the crowds of people so that we could protect Henry. This was an amazing night, to do something so normal as a family. Henry and Edward had the best time, both of them so excited by the firework display set to music. This time gave us the opportunity to make precious memories, something that we now hold very dear to our hearts.

But it was after Henry's death that Demelza really stands out. Following his death Henry was driven to Demelza Hospice in Eltham to stay in their Butterfly suite, this special room gave us the opportunity to stay close to him as we navigated the first difficult days. From the moment we entered Demelza we felt an overwhelming sense of calm. We were given the opportunity to speak to the bereavement lead, family support lead, the nursing and care teams. Practical support was provided about how to start organising the avalanche of logistical and practical elements that have to be undertaken, others gave us an opportunity to talk, finding out about Henry and us, and crucially provided opportunities to create long lasting memories. Edward has been able to access initial therapy support, so that further help can be provided for him in the future. The teams provided home cooked meals and of course lots of cake!

The care hasn’t stopped just because we left Demelza, Edward will be able to access therapy and sibling support. We have the knowledge that someone is at the end of the phone when we need it and that we can access support in the coming months to help us process things.  The team at Demelza have been and are incredible and have helped us through some of the hardest days we have ever sadly had to experience, and for that we are truly grateful.

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