Janice Howard was diagnosed with Stage 4 bowel cancer in her 50s in Walsgrave Hospital following vague symptoms of tiredness and constipation.

Her daughter, Sophie, recalled:

When mum received the diagnosis, it was a huge shock for us all. She began palliative chemotherapy, but her condition deteriorated, and she was admitted to hospital in severe pain. The hospital just couldn’t manage her pain – it was such a difficult and distressing time.

Janice was later admitted to our Coventry Myton Hospices inpatient unit.

Sophie continued:

As soon as she arrived at Myton, everything changed. Her pain was quickly brought under control and the care she received was truly exceptional – not just physically, but emotionally and spiritually too. The hospice had such a calm atmosphere. Mum died peacefully in her sleep at Myton in December 2016.

Reflecting on that time, Sophie said:

When you’re in that palliative care bubble with a loved one, it’s overwhelmingly stressful. Myton gave us a safe haven, somewhere that preserved mum’s dignity and provided calm for the whole family. They helped mum feel less afraid, and the way they managed her pain and created space for peace was just incredible.

Myton is compassion in action. The care we received inspired me to give back so others can experience the same sanctuary. Knowing that families today can access this level of exceptional palliative care is exactly why I’m so passionate about supporting Myton.

We’d also like to say a heartfelt thank you to Sophie for her continued support. She has kindly provided care packages filled with lovely goodies for both patients and nurses at our Coventry Myton Hospice.

Her generosity and thoughtfulness mean so much to everyone at Myton, and we’re truly grateful for the kindness she continues to show in memory of her mum.

If you have been inspired by Sophie’s story, there are many ways you can help us support more people like Janice and ensure Myton is ‘Here for everyone, now and forever’.

Find out how you can get involved HERE!