My Story

Our 'Night to Remember' walk is in memory of Ron, (Dad to Sandra and Grandpop to George and Tara) and Simon (Husband to Ruth and Dad to Natalie). 

St Barnabas supported our families from the moment we received the diagnosis, right through to their final days and beyond. Their care, support and compassion helped our families in these devastating times and helped our loved ones to pass away with dignity in the comfort and safety of their own homes. The level of care they offered was so greatly appreciated. We felt as though we were not alone. The money we are raising will help ensure local people with terminal illnesses are cared for throughout their journey with dignity and compassion. 

We will be walking 15 miles along the Worthing seafront at midnight on Saturday 13th July. We would be extremely grateful if you were able to donate. Even if this is £1, it all adds up for families in need of such specialist support. £10 could provide a delicious meal at the hospice, catered for a patient’s individual needs. £15 could buy a memory box, giving patients the chance to leave a precious lasting legacy for their loved ones. £25 could cover the cost of an hour of care at home during the night; this is often the most difficult time for patients and families. This was the hardest time for us. 

Ron was a family man to the core and would do anything to support them. He had a love for travel and a big sense of humour. Christmas was always a fun time for him with his grandchildren and more recently great-grandchildren. He loved sport and continued with his golf well into retirement. He was a lifelong Brighton and Hove Albion supporter. 

Sadly he was taken from us leaving behind his wife Pauline of 63 years, his children Sandra and Denise and his grandchildren George, Tara, Zoe, Lisa and Selina and great-grandchildren too. He was diagnosed with stomach cancer in January 2019 and died on Valentine's Day just 45 days later but not before ensuring his wife had a valentine's card and a dozen red roses! He is missed every day particularly on big occasions like George's graduation and his recent wedding to Natalie. St Barnabas were a great comfort to the family during this difficult time and worked tirelessly to enable him to remain at home and die with his family around him. Their support has continued with counselling and having the chapel is a source of comfort and somewhere quiet to sit and remember the wonderful man he was.

Simon was a kind, helpful, fun-loving, bird watching pain in the butt. Be it his constant jokes, and winding up of Ruth his wife, or his daughter Natalie, and now husband George, or his love for tinkering and DIY. He was a man that loved life and lived it to its fullest, often jetting off around the world in hunt of that next rare bird that he wanted to see. 

Sadly in August of 2020, he was diagnosed with cancer and after a valiant battle he passed away Christmas of the same year. St Barnabas guided Ruth and Natalie through these difficult months, caring for Simon's every need - be it a good day or not. Even after Simon's passing, St Barnabas offered love and support which was invaluable during this dreadful time.