Sandra Bignell’s first visit to Pendleside Hospice came a couple of years after a life-changing breast cancer diagnosis, marking the start of an 18-year journey of treatment, resilience and hope.
Sadly, Sandra died earlier this year, but in that time, she became more than a patient; she was a friend, a helper, and a familiar, welcoming presence. She would greet new service users as if she’d known them for years, making them a cup of tea and ensuring they felt welcome. It wasn’t uncommon for people to assume she was a volunteer rather than a patient.
Julia O’Neill, who retired this summer as Pendleside’s Health, Wellbeing & Rehabilitation Manager, had known Sandra before joining the Hospice 16 years ago and was there for Sandra’s very first outpatient visit. Julia said, “Losing Sandra had such a huge impact on me and the team. She was a beautiful, caring and remarkable person who defied the odds and brought joy to everyone at the Hospice. While we were there to support Sandra, the truth is, she gave just as much back to Pendleside. I retired from my role this summer and, in a way, sharing Sandra’s story now feels like my way of saying goodbye too. I feel privileged to have known her throughout my entire time at Pendleside.”
The story of Sandra and her partner, Lee, began over 20 years ago, when they met at work. A few years later, their friendship grew into romance, but just six months into their relationship, Sandra received her cancer diagnosis.
Lee remembers how quickly life changed, “Not long after, I became self-employed, training as a photographer and videographer so I could be there for her appointments and treatments. Sandra often came with me on jobs. We’d travel up and down the country in our camper van, turning work into little adventures.”
Their motto became 'one day at a time' – a mindset Lee believes helped Sandra endure for so long. “We never asked how long she had left,” he said. “We simply made the most of the present. If results were good, she’d just say, ‘Let’s book a holiday!’”
Sandra also loved shopping, and spending time with her family and grandchildren. She cared deeply for the friends she had made at Pendleside, always checking in on others, sometimes even collecting fellow service users to bring them to the Hospice. She embraced every opportunity to join in, particularly Pendleside’s fashion shows – an occasion that felt made for her.
But there were moments of fear, especially towards the end, when she worried she might not see certain friends again. In the final months of her life, Sandra’s cancer spread. After an unsuccessful clinical trial, she prepared for chemotherapy. “I took her on the Wednesday, but it was too late. By the Monday, she was on end of life care at Blackburn Hospital,” Lee recalled.
On the Tuesday morning, Sandra was unconscious but stable. Lee knew he had to get her to Pendleside as this was her final wish. With the help of Dr Alison and the Hospice team, she was transferred by ambulance. “It was touch and go, and her oxygen levels were dropping,” Lee said. “But she made it to Pendleside. She was settled into a room and made comfortable. The sun shone through the window, birds sang, and the scent of fresh flowers filled the air. It was just the two of us and I told her she could sleep now. Within moments, she peacefully passed away, with my head on her chest. It was as though she knew exactly where she needed to be. I’m so grateful for everything Pendleside has done for Sandra and for me. The team have been there for us every step of the way, even in our final hours.”
Reflecting on their years together, Lee added: “Sandra told me once that I could have walked away when she was diagnosed. Never. I was always going to stick by her. She brought so much joy to people’s lives, and I feel so thankful to have been a part of hers. If I can take anything from her philosophy, it’s to make every day count, focus on the good things, and make memories and friends.”
Sandra’s life is a reminder that Pendleside Hospice is more than a place for end of life care; it is a place for living, for friendship, and for making a difference.
Pendleside Hospice is here to offer care, comfort and support when it matters most.
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