Published on: Wednesday 09 Sep 2015 at 10:57
Marilyn Taylor donated the cards featuring her botanical watercolours to generate vital funds for our charity so that other people can benefit from the specialist care and support she has received from St Clare.
Marilyn, a former teacher who lives in Epping, said: “I thought I was going to St Clare to die; I was so weak. But, the way St Clare cares for people is an eye-opener. St Clare literally gave me back my life, my sense of self and my independence.”
Marilyn, who has two sons, was diagnosed with endometrial cancer in May 2014. When she first came to the Hospice she said she felt “totally helpless”, but thanks to our expert care she was able to regain enough strength to go home.
“I thought that was the end of my journey,” she said. “When I was first transferred to St Clare’s Inpatient Unit, I didn’t think I’d ever go home again. But right from the start, the staff and volunteers gave me so much encouragement in so many ways. It was challenging, but they were so supportive. They make you feel like a real person, and not just a patient.”
Our clinical team put measures in place to support Marilyn’s return home, arranging for equipment to be installed to help make the transition easier. She was also supported by our Hospice at Home team.
“To be able to return home, sit watching the birds in the garden, it’s been magical,” she said. “I was even able to do some more painting, which I love. Last October, I took up an art class and began a series of botanical paintings. After the care I received, I want to give something back to St Clare, so I’ve donated the cards featuring some of my paintings to St Clare to raise money so that other people can receive the phenomenal support that St Clare Hospice provides absolutely free of charge to those that need it. And if I need to go back to St Clare, I won’t be at all afraid.”
Marilyn’s cards come in four designs in packs of eight. They are available for a suggested minimum donation of £3 per pack, or £5 for two packs, from all eight of the St Clare Hospice shops as well as from the Hospice reception.
You can read Marilyn’s full story here.
