Six of Phyllis Tuckwell’s Living Well patients recently spent a highly enjoyable and hugely beneficial night out at an Abba tribute act at Princes’ Hall in Aldershot.
Phyllis Tuckwell offers palliative and end of life care to local patients, families and carers who are living with an advanced or terminal illness, such as cancer. Its Living Well team supports those who need help managing living everyday life with their illness, offering medical, nursing, therapeutic, emotional and practical support, through individual appointments and group sessions.
Many of Phyllis Tuckwell’s patients only really leave their house to go to a hospital or medical appointment, or to attend one of the charity’s weekly Living Well sessions. Earlier this year, in response to patient requests, its staff organised a trip for some of its patients and carers to see a George Michael tribute act, and it was so successful that they decided to arrange another one.
“Participating in an activity such as this, which is not connected to their illness, makes patients feel a part of society,” said Rachel Copes, Living Well sister at Phyllis Tuckwell. “Being able to look forward to these evenings out, and experience them with others who are in a similar situation, boosts their wellbeing and confidence, and gives them a sense of purpose. Six of our patients and three of their spouses wanted to go, and with three members of our team, we were able to offer patients one-to-one care for the evening.”
Each patient paid for their own ticket and, under Princes’ Hall Essential Companion Scheme, their carers were able to attend for free. They were allocated wheelchair accessible spaces and seats, at the front of auditorium, and the staff at Princes’ Hall staff helped them in and out of the lift and accompanied them to find their seats and get settled.
“It was a wonderful night,” continued Rachel. “The Princes’ Hall staff were brilliant. They were very attentive and helpful, and really looked after us. Our patients all really appreciated the evening out. Attending this sort of event helps them to forget what else might be going on in their lives and enjoy something that isn’t related to being ill. It was priceless to see how much enjoyment and benefit they got from it.”
“It was the first evening social event I’ve been to for about three years,” said one patient. “I was so nervous, but it was wonderful and I felt rejuvenated!”
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