Our lovely patient, Jessica is 30 years old. She has cardiac failure and her medical needs are palliative care. Jessica was discharged from a hospital where no further treatment could be offered to her, before being admitted to our Inpatient Unit for symptom control.
 
She has always had a huge love for Disney and her family have always enjoyed big get-togethers and special celebrations. While she has been unwell, they have been missing their family gatherings and the quality time that would come from simply being together.
 
We wanted to help Jessica and her family create their very own big family gathering on the ward. Our fundraising team, healthcare assistant and social worker all worked together to bring a Disney-inspired pizza party to life in Jessica’s Hospice room back in November. Our wonderful fundraisers worked with Dominos, who generously provided plenty of hot pizza for the family to enjoy. 

A big group of 12 loving family members came together from near and far to be with Jessica. Her mum, Barbara, sister, Tiffany and brother, Douglas were there along with her auntie, nephews, nieces and cousins. It was an evening that they were longing for. In true style, everyone sported a Disney-themed top, Minnie Mouse ears and put on a show while singing and dancing to Disney songs at her bedside. It was a magical, meaningful evening – filled with laughter, tears, hugs and a lot of love.

Jessica later shared with her family that she will never forget this special evening.

Our very own Hospice Healthcare Assistant, Samantha, is one of Jessica’s cousins. She shares:

“I felt so relieved when my cousin, Jess, arrived in the care of St Raphael’s. The medical expertise, paired with tender love and care, from everyone at the Hospice has made it possible for my cousin to be well enough to return home. Being comfortable and surrounded by her loved ones is what brings Jess and our entire family the most happiness.”

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