Dawn was referred to St John’s Day Therapy Services from the Hospital respiratory team.
Having benefited from many of the Hospice services, Dawn is happy to share her experiences to help others!
“I have Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), it got so bad I had to retire from my job and then I found myself ill and alone in hospital during the pandemic.
After the pandemic my breathing had worsened so when St John’s Day Therapy Services were suggested I thought, “I’ve nothing to lose”. I knew I’d be safe and cared for because they nursed someone in my family who’d passed away on the ward and my Dad has fantastic care from the Hospice at Home team.
I have attended the “FAB” programme for my fatigue, anxiety and breathlessness, which has made such a difference. It was then time to take stock of my mental health; it had got worse through living with this life limiting COPD. So, I signed up to the Positive Living Group in the hope of improving my wellbeing, confidence and developing future plans. It’s worked – I have found myself exploring activities and new hobbies that I enjoy! We can all laugh at crafts and things but they give you a focus, you actually make something and they can distract me from my pain.
If I’m honest, it can be hard to summon up the courage to walk into a place where you don’t know anyone. I don’t know why I was so worried because everyone is so friendly. There’s always a brew, biscuits, advice and
support. Plus, you get to meet other people, you make friends – this place has an amazing feel to it!
The St John’s Day Therapy team always know how you are feeling – it’s like they can sense it. They’re genuinely interested in their patients: such amazing people.
I was a right mess when I first came here and I’m in a different place now. My physical and mental health has improved and I’ve found my self confidence that I’d thought I’d lost forever.”
