“In 2021, my wife Sao (Trinh Thi Sao), was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and undertook extensive chemotherapy treatment followed by radiation therapy through Auckland hospital. As a result, the cancer was halted, giving us a little more time with Sao, but eventually it progressed and her life became more and more difficult.

At this time, we were re-introduced to Mercy Hospice, with whom we had had experience some 10 years previously, when they cared so beautifully for Sao’s father in his last days.

We are grateful for the Community Palliative Care (CPC) nursing team at Mercy who visited her regularly at home and provided caring advice for us all. We knew they were only a phone call away.  In the last few weeks, that service was critical to our time while Sao remained at home.

Although the last days were tough on Sao and our family, the care and love we experienced from Mercy Hospice was profound and beautiful.

They were like angels, quietly and sensitively making Sao comfortable, while giving us space to be with her, until she passed away peacefully on 15th August, with the sun shining into her room there.

This was a huge experience for all of us, especially my adult children. Mercy Hospice staff made them welcome and encouraged them to stay the night with Mum once she had passed away.

Thank you.

Christopher Hawley

Thank you, Christopher for allowing us to share your story.