Nigel and his family
When Nigel’s health deteriorated and his GP suggested that he be admitted to hospital, both Nigel and his wife Donna said “no”. Here Donna explains how a flexible approach from Rennie Grove’s nurses enabled Nigel to maintain control over his own care and to stay at home right until the end.
“Nigel and I met in Philadelphia in 1989. I’m American and he was British and when we knew we wanted to spend our lives together we decided to settle over here. We had 28 wonderful years together.
“Before I met Nigel he had been diagnosed with Sarcoidosis, a rare condition that affected his lungs. He really had no symptoms other than shortness of breath from time to time. For many people with Sarcoidosis, symptoms often improve without treatment within a few months or years. However, a few people find their symptoms develop gradually and get worse over time, to the point where they become severely affected and sadly Nigel was one of those rare people.
“Although his lungs were damaged he was able to lead a very normal life. And even when he had to start oxygen therapy 24/7 we adapted to a new way of life. It was simple but good.
Nigel and Donna Foxwell together
“I could not have done what I did without the Rennie Grove nurses who I describe as having caring hands and warm hearts. They offered us the flexible service that we needed and I was confident that we were receiving a top quality hospice at home service.
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