Kelly’s Story

Who cares for the carer? We do – thanks to your support.

When crisis response nurse Kelly Burton cared for her dad in his own home in his final weeks, she found a shoulder to lean on in St Luke’s.

Kelly from Wistaston recalls how tough she found her caring role, despite all her training: “Dad was adamant that he wanted to stay at home but he had lung cancer and we could see how much he was deteriorating. My daughter’s a nurse as well but nothing prepares you for caring for someone you love, so St Luke’s became our support.”

Kelly accessed complementary therapies at the Hospice to help sustain her in her caring role, and says it was the best support: “It was the only time I could let go and acknowledge the emotions I was going through. The key thing is it was someone caring for me, and it gave me a release and stopped me breaking down in front of the kids and most importantly in front of dad.

“The staff were just so caring, they were the only professionals that asked ‘how are you?’ and I really needed that support.”

A St Luke’s complementary therapist also visited Kelly’s 77-year-old dad at home to provide treatment to ease his symptoms and pain. Kelly recalls:
“At the end of the treatment, the therapist left him all wrapped up in his blanket and he looked so calm. I’d never seen him so relaxed and he said it was ‘magnificent’. He looked so well and that is such a special memory for me.

“St Luke’s were great but I always knew they would be. I can’t thank the Hospice enough.”

If you’d like to make a regular donation to St Luke’s, so we can continue offering vital support and care to people like Kelly, please click here.