Pio’s story

Pio was diagnosed with a rare form of bladder cancer after becoming suddenly unwell in September 2023. After finding out that his condition was incurable, Pio and Cora were able to make a special trip to visit Pio’s family in the Philippines.

After returning to Banbury, Harriet from the community nursing team visited the couple at home and supported Cora in caring for her husband. Cora said “Whatever my concern, if I needed help, the community nurses were ready to answer or to visit us if needed. The occupational therapist arranged things we needed in the house like rails on the stairs and in the bathroom.”

Once Pio’s condition had worsened, he came to the inpatient ward at the hospice. Pio was very worried about this and thought it meant that Cora wouldn’t be able to be with him. This wasn’t the case, as Cora found out, “I spoke to somebody who told me that I could be with him all the time. In the end, I was able to stay overnight in his room with him. It meant we could spend quality time together, even just to hold hands and do our prayers.”

“When Pio was admitted to the ward, I really appreciated how, from the moment we arrived at reception, everyone was so friendly, comforting and welcoming. Nurse Gemma recognised me from her time as a student nurse and the next day I met another nurse I had taught. This brought me a sense of comfort, as though God was sending people to support us.”

“I am so grateful to the hospice and will do whatever I can to give back. When I had the opportunity to add his name to the celebration tree, I didn’t hesitate. Although I can’t volunteer due to my full-time work at the hospital, I will support in any way I can – whether that’s buying a rose in his memory or taking part in the raffle.” 

It is thanks to the donations of our wonderful supporters that we’re able to continue providing care to people affected by life-limiting illnesses and their families, helping them make the most of the time they have left and create quality memories with their loved ones. If you would like to make a donation, please click on the button below.

• To find out more about the work we do, read What we do.
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