Pendleside Hospice service user Ann, aged 86, has found a new lease of life through the hospice’s Health & Wellbeing Art Group, after first attending for complementary therapy sessions following her diagnosis of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
What began as a gentle, adapted therapy to support her physical wellbeing has since grown into a creative and emotional journey that Ann says has “opened her eyes” and helped her reconnect with life after loss.
When Ann first came to Pendleside Hospice, she was looking for some comfort and calm following her cancer diagnosis. Because of her condition, she was unable to have the usual massage treatments offered through the hospice’s complementary therapy service, but that didn’t stop the team from adapting their care.
Instead, they provided a gentle stroking-style massage, designed to help her relax and feel cared for in a safe and soothing way.
Ann attended six weeks of complementary therapy, which brought her both physical comfort and emotional peace during a difficult time. Once her course came to an end, the Health & Wellbeing team encouraged her to join the hospice’s Monday art group, something she hadn’t considered before, but which soon became an important part of her life.
After losing both her husband and her son, Ann didn’t want to receive bereavement counselling. She felt that she didn’t know how to open up about her feelings, but thought that art might be a good way to release some of the emotions she had been holding in.
From the moment she joined the group, she found it to be a warm, welcoming space where she could express herself and connect with others who understood what she was going through.
Anne said: “The art group has opened up my eyes and has given me a new lease of life I didn’t think I would ever get. It’s given me a safe space to express my feelings honestly and creatively.”
During the sessions, Ann has found new friends and a new sense of purpose. The weekly sessions are now something she looks forward to, offering companionshipand time to reflect.
Through her artwork, she has been able to put on paper feelings that she once couldn’t find the words to say. Her most recent piece is adrawing of a heart, which she says represents her time at the art group.
The bottom half of the heart is shaded with darker colours, showing her sadness and feelings of isolation. Towards the top, the colours become bright and vibrant, symbolising her new friendships, her confidence and the joy she has found in being able to talk openly again.
Ann added. “I never thought I’d feel like this again, but the group has given me that chance. It’s made me feel alive.”
Ann also said it felt like “an early Christmas present” and it was “the best thing to have happened.”
Outside of her time at the hospice, Ann keeps herself busy with aqua aerobics at her local leisure centre, enjoys walks with a local group and meets friends during the week for a coffee and a chat. She says the art group has fitted perfectly into her life, giving her something meaningful to look forward to each week.
The Health & Wellbeing team has announced that the art group is currently working on a Christmas wreath, which will be displayed at the Light Up a Life event on 21st December at the hospice.
Ann wanted to share her story to help others who might be going through something similar.
Ann said: “I want to thank all of the Health & Wellbeing team for going above and beyond in everything they do. Their kindness, support and creativity have made such a difference in my life.”
The Health & Wellbeing service at Pendleside Hospice offers a range of activities and therapies designed to support physical, emotional and social wellbeing for people living with life-limiting illnesses.
This includes complementary therapies, art groups, music sessions and social activities that bring people together.
The extension of the art group reflects the hospice’s commitment to providing services that respond to the needs of local people, helping them find comfort, confidence and community.
Ann’s journey is a beautiful example of how creativity, connection and compassionate care can transform lives. Through her time at Pendleside Hospice, she has found strength, friendship and a renewed sense of purpose – and her story is a reminder of the difference that thoughtful, personalised care can make.
All care is provided free of charge, made possible thanks to the generosity of supporters, volunteers and the wider community, ensuring that services like the art group can continue to bring comfort, hope and joy to those who need it most.
To learn more about Pendlside Hospice and what they have to offer, please visit www.pendleside.org.uk