‘I would want everyone to have that experience’

A bereaved family has thanked staff for providing high-quality end-of-life care in hospital.

Loved ones of Cindy Aitkenhead said their experience on Sandwich Bay ward at the Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother Hospital in Margate was ‘absolutely amazing’ thanks to the kindness and compassion of staff.

Five dedicated end-of-life beds were opened at the hospital in 2023, with staff undergoing specialist training to support patients and their families. The rooms were refurbished this year thanks to East Kent Hospitals Charity, to help create a more peaceful and welcoming atmosphere.

Cindy’s sister Lesley said: “We were overwhelmed by the facilities, and everyone’s professionalism and kindness.

“We had no idea these rooms existed until it was offered to us. There was such a beautiful calm atmosphere and the people were so lovely; it was such a comfort to my brother in law and the whole family.”

The family did not want Cindy to die in the nearby hospice, as her daughter had died there three years ago and it felt too raw.

Instead, she was cared for in the Sunflower Room on Sandwich Bay until she died peacefully with her loved ones by her side on Sunday, September 7.

Lesley said: “The sunflowers felt so significant as they are a symbol of hope. 

“My great niece and I slept in the room with Cindy for six nights and the staff cared for us as much as they cared for Cindy.

“People are always so quick to complain but there was absolutely nothing negative to say; there wasn’t anyone who wasn’t absolutely amazing.

“I would want everyone to have that experience. It is a difficult job but they do it so well and it made a real difference to us.”

Cindy was 76, and had been suffering from Parkinson’s-associated dementia. She was first diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease 20 years ago, and had also suffered with rheumatoid arthritis since her 20s, and asthma almost her whole life.

Lesley said: “She had struggled with illness her whole life and I had always looked after her, as I was the blessed one and I was always healthy.

“I didn’t want to leave her on her own and one of the healthcare assistants offered to sit with her so we could go and get something to eat.

“It was a desperately sad time made easier by their kindness – right down to the lady who popped in to ask if she could empty the bin.”

Cindy had moved to a care home in Walmer after breaking her leg in a fall in 2023, and before that was cared for at home by her husband.

Lesley said: “No one could have cared for her the way he did. She was surrounded by love.

“She was so creative, and a wonderful seamstress. She adored clothes and fashion, and had raised money for Parkinson’s charities.

“We shared a love of books and it meant the world to be able to talk to the staff about her so they knew who she was as a person, not just a patient.”