Kane’s story: dad's perspective
Kane’s dad, Craig, shares how Demelza’s expert care and support helped him and his family cope during the most difficult time of their lives.
“Kane was the most beautiful boy. He loved cuddles and his hair being stroked, as well as music and sensory lights.
“Prior to coming to Demelza for end of life care, it was solely myself and Kane’s mum, Kerri, who cared for Kane. I would do the nights, and Kerri would do the days. So it was difficult at first to let the nurses take over some aspects of care. Luckily we knew a few of the nurses already and this helped us relax and let them do medicines at times. The nurses took their time to get to know us and communicate with us, and we slowly let them care for Kane.
“At first it was very difficult to stay at Demelza. I imagined Demelza to be like a hospital, but we were made to feel comfortable from the minute we arrived. I was offered emotional support and guidance through what to expect during our stay. They were so accommodating and Kane’s room had the perfect balance of feeling homely and not too clinical.
“The team were phenomenal. Everybody was caring and understanding and already knowing some of the nurses was amazing and comforting. The nurses took their time to talk me through some very difficult conversations and make me feel comfortable talking about next steps and preparing me for what to expect in Kane’s end of life care.
“During our stay, we did memory making with Kane, making hand casts and fingerprints for us to keep. Kane’s music therapist came three times to do sessions with Kane in the garden, which was beautiful. The team gave us a memory stick with pictures, so we could remember those moments.
“Demelza’s support means everything because we wouldn’t have got that same support from family or a hospital. It was needed and appreciated so much.
“They provide so many different services. We attended play groups, they helped us get a car seat, and they provided transport for a few of Kane’s hospital visits too.
“Their end of life care was top tier. Everyone from clinical staff to management, cooks, cleaners, receptionist, care coordinator… every single person we met at Demelza was professional and friendly and truly cared about Kane, as well as our wellbeing.
“My partner has just started therapy with Demelza, and my mum is now attending their grandparents’ group. They’ve provided support for Kane’s brother too. I know that if I ever need support they will always be there.
“I am so grateful for the care and support they gave us and are still providing. We were so hesitant to use the hospice, but now I’m glad we had to be at Demelza. They made the most difficult time of my life a little bit easier.”
“Demelza’s support means everything because we wouldn’t have got that same support from family or a hospital. It was needed and appreciated so much. They made the most difficult time of my life a little bit easier.”
