“I don’t like to admit it, but I think it saved me”

A Cheshire woman whose husband was diagnosed with early onset dementia says support from St Luke’s Hospice saved her. Lil and Ron Kelsall have received life-changing support from the Winsford-based hospice.

For Lil, who is Ron’s full-time carer, finding local support initially felt impossible — until she discovered St Luke’s.

“Before I found St Luke’s, I felt like I was on my own as a carer,” Lil explained. “Everybody says there’s help available, but when you’re trying to access it, it’s like running into a brick wall. The support from St Luke’s has meant absolutely everything. I don’t like to admit it, but I think it saved me.”

Now, the Kelsalls are backing the Hospice’s Spring Appeal, which aims to raise £28,000 to fund a dedicated specialist dementia nurse. This new role will enable the Hospice to reach more people in the community affected by dementia, offering personalised medical support, guidance for carers, and crisis prevention services.

Sister Sarah Whitby, from St Luke’s Day Hospice, said: “Over the last three years we’ve built a strong foundation for dementia support, including one-to-one sessions, carers’ workshops, music therapy, and drop-in services. But it’s not enough. One in three of us will be affected by dementia in our lifetime, and we’re seeing growing demand for our care.

“With the help of a specialist nurse, we can ensure more people are supported at home, reduce hospital admissions, and expand our services—such as reintroducing music and exercise programmes that make a real difference to quality of life.”

All donations to the Spring Appeal will directly support the Hospice’s efforts to deliver compassionate, specialised care to people living with dementia and their families.

“Your kindness can ensure that local people with dementia are not alone and that their carers have the support they need,” added Sister Sarah. “With your help families can face the future with the knowledge that they are not fighting this battle by themselves.”