On Monday 3rd February our wonderful Gill passed away. She wanted to make sure the amazing charities that supported her so compassionately were given a spotlight to the work they do. It probably doesn’t surprise you that until the very end Gill was thinking of others. We’ve shared below Gill’s thoughts and feelings on the the team behind Sussex Cancer Fund.

“ Dying is very lonely because you are the only person going through your treatment and who is dying out of your friends. It isn’t always a comfortable place to be both physically and emotionally but my time with the local oncology team was made easier by working with such an incredible team. From the chemo staff, the clinical nurse specialists, oncologist and support workers the Sussex Cancer team were steadfast and unwavering in their support, counselling, love, comfort and compassion.

It was really important to me that I could attend appointments alone, which enabled life to keep moving forwards, and the oncology team made this ambition a reality. They created a supportive environment but not only that they took time to understand the impact minor changes in my medication could make to my already fragile life.

The team never made me feel alone or scared, which considering how lonely the journey could be at times, meant so much to me. Their love, compassion and support over the years has been exceptional and they respected me and my life every step of the way.

I have written into my end of life planning that I want to continue to support charities such as Sussex Cancer Fund, The Martlets and Macmillan. They were beyond incredible at supporting me to be able to cope with treatment and when the wheels did fall off mine and Russ life, as they inevitably would, all these charities were there to catch us.

I appreciate that charity is also very personal so if there are other charities that you wish to donate to then I encourage that too.”

The Sussex Cancer Fund works with the NHS to create new and improved facilities for cancer care in Sussex, including purchasing specialist equipment, providing additional patient services, refurbishment projects and funding cancer research studies.

It is likely that every Cancer Patient in Sussex will have benefitted from something the Sussex Cancer Fund has provided. #RaisedInSussexStaysInSussex.