A LOCAL family wants to give back to the Alexandra Hospital by raising money for its ‘end of life room’.
‘The Stephen Bailey Suite’ was used by Bromsgrove resident Jeanette Rosser and her terminally ill mum Betty Hurdle, from Matchborough, earlier this year.
Jeanette said: “We were devastated when we found out there was nothing else they could do for my mum.
“But the nurse told me there was a suite available for end of life patients – a room designed to make them feel more comfortable.”
Jeanette and her family, who came from far and wide to visit Betty in her final days, spent every moment by her side in the suite, surrounding her with love and affection.
As well as sleeping over, they were able to make hot drinks, listen to Betty’s favourite music out loud and share family anecdotes – all while knowing they were just a buzz away from medical assistance.
“We all miss her terribly because she was our matriarch,” said Jeanette, “the world is a much sadder place without her in it.
“It’s upsetting to know most patients spend their last days in bustling wards or noisy side rooms – they die without peace and dignity.
“That’s why we are so grateful to have been given the opportunity to make memories with her before she passed.”
Jeanette and her family, including her son Spencer, have organised several charity events to help raise cash for new furniture and equipment in the Stephen Bailey Suite – named after a former patient.
They will hold a fund-raising event on May 10 at Rocklands Social Club, in Redditch.
There will be stalls, tombola and a raffle from 2.30pm and live music on the night after 7.30pm. Adult tickets cost £5 and children will be given free entry.
You can help out by donating at www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/betty-hurdle or by contacting Jeanette on 07772 087572.
