Hospice News

Fundraising Stories

This year, Gail is riding the 100km Tour de Bristol fundraiser. She's taking on the challenge in memory of her friend, Alex, who was cared for by the Hospice.

Gail and Alex met through work in 1990, and they quickly became close friends. In June 2023, Gail and Alex were on holiday in Croatia when Alex began feeling ill.

"Alex booked a doctor's appointment when we got home and within a month she had been diagnosed with bowel cancer" says Gail, "At first, the diagnosis was positive, and the doctors believed Alex's cancer was treatable. However, after an initial operation to remove the tumour, sadly the doctors discovered that it had become entangled and would be too difficult to remove."

Gail and Alex

Alex started chemotherapy shortly after her operation to help manage her cancer.

"She responded really well to the chemotherapy and was so brave and positive throughout."

In February 2024, the tumour had shrunk, and Alex was feeling well enough to go away on a girls weekend. Unfortunately, after they returned, Alex began to feel unwell again and was admitted to Cheltenham Hospital in March. At this stage, the cancer had advanced, and Alex had become too weak for further treatment. After a long stay in hospital, Alex requested to be moved to St Peter's Hospice.

Our Nurses supported Alex with pain management and she was able to have lots of visits from her friends and family.

Gail and Alex

"I spent a lot of time with her during those last weeks and she loved being taken out into the beautiful gardens. It's a lovely environment and provides the peace needed for patients and their families during a very difficult time."

Gail remembers Alex's immense strength during this time and how she always remained positive for her family.

"She was in constant pain in those last few weeks, but the nurses were always there to help relieve her symptoms and they cared for her so well."

Alex

Alex passed away at the Hospice in April last year surrounded by her family and friends.

Gail is a keen cyclist and was inspired to sign up for the Tour de Bristol after spotting the cyclists out on the route last year.

"The day after Alex passed away, I saw the Tour de Bristol cyclists out on the ride and decided with my partner that we would sign up next year in memory of Alex."

Gail was hoping to raise £1,000 in sponsorship and has already smashed her goal. She'll be cycling on the day with her partner and close friends.

Sign up for Tour de Bristol