Andrew's Story
“It was like a life raft.”
In December 2023, Andrew died at peace in his own environment,
surrounded by his family at home. This was his wish. Andrew was 56.
This is Andrew’s Story as told by his Sister Debbie and Mother Heather.
Andrew, with his dogs, Winnie and Howie.
Andrew was diagnosed with a rare form of stomach cancer, Signet Ring Carcinoma, in March 2023. Unfortunately, this unusual type of cancer is often detected late, and by the time it was discovered, it had already progressed to Stage 4. Despite undergoing surgery and chemotherapy, complications arose, preventing him from completing the treatment.
In November, he was discharged from the hospital and began receiving palliative care from Peninsula Home Hospice (PHH). Andrew was a highly intelligent, well educated, non-conventional dreamer. He was clear on his ideas and communicated them assertively with respect. As his sister, I felt ill equipped to support Andrew in the right ways at home despite my nursing background.
I was concerned about maintaining our relationship and our rapport whilst also caring for him. Andrew was unique, so he required an approach that matched his personality. I was a little concerned about how it might play out. Fortunately, Andrew was very accepting of his condition and welcoming of the staff from PHH.
Andrew’s Mum Heather, Sister Debbie and Niece Tara
Peninsula Home Hospice was such a great support to me, as it meant I became a facilitator in his care, allowing me to focus on my role as his sister and Medical Power of Attorney. The PHH team respected Andrew’s individuality and met him on his terms, without any set agenda. They saw him as more than his illness, and engaged with his interests, particularly his love for music. Daniel, counsellor case worker, took a genuine interest in Andrew and his passions, particularly his music collection. The nurses interacted with him with compassion and understanding and didn’t change their approach, even if he didn’t take their advice.
Andrew didn’t want to see either Mum or I get upset, he couldn’t cope with it. The dynamics were challenging at times, protecting my Mum, and both of us trying to put on a brave face. Holding back these emotions was hard for us but we never felt alone and felt guided by them navigating the challenges. It was like a life raft.
Due to this personal and non-judgmental approach, he had a beautiful ending. Because Andrew expressed a desire to be in his own home until the end, we as a family really appreciated the support Peninsula Home Hospice provided to be able to fulfill his wishes. We specifically valued their 24/7 telephone support, home visits and the option of overnight stays if needed.
Andrew’s time with Peninsula Home Hospice was short but we had a desire to show his and our appreciation for their service and how important it is to be able to support people, so their loved ones can stay at home. To honour Andrew’s memory and show our gratitude, we established Andrew’s Scholarship Fund. This fund aims to provide ongoing education for the PHH staff, ensuring they can continue their valuable work and support other families in similar situations.
Andrew and Heather with Howie, Winnie and Emma.
Andrew’s Family with the first three recipients of Andrew’s Scholarship Fund.
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Our aim is to provide specialist palliative care in the home that optimises quality of life and honours the hope for comfort, choice, dignity and peace.