Special kit bags are being provided to families and carers of patients using the Hospice @Home service run by East Cheshire Hospice. The bags contain everyday essentials such as gels, pads, razors, soaps, deodorants and wipes. Nurses and healthcare assistants discreetly take them into homes following the death of a loved one they have been caring for. They are known as Care After Death (CAD) bags.
The Hospice is the only healthcare provider which provides these emergency kits, saving relatives the task of possibly having to look for basic items at such a precious time.
Community Support Drives Initiative
The kit bags have been funded by dozens of pool players who came to the Hospice's aid once they realised they could provide this practical assistance. Healthcare assistant Tracy Pointon came up with the idea of having ready-made bags at their disposal for when required on their travels. Tracy is a member of the Hospice @Home team which has cared for more than 470 patients in the last year. The much-needed service has been an integral part of the Hospice's community provision since it was founded in 2017.
Personal Connection Inspires Fundraising
Tracy's husband Steve plays for the Farmer's Arms team in the Congleton Pool League which responded immediately with every team making donations. Daughter Kayliegh crocheted hearts and two are placed in each bag, one for the patient and the other for the family. The gift of hearts knitted by volunteers for families and patients is now a proud Hospice tradition.
The pool league has also donated £250 towards an 80s night organised by Tracy in October. A disco night she ran last year raised more than £3,000. Congleton Pool League chairman Matt Swindells said: "We recognise the tireless efforts made by East Cheshire Hospice for those in need. The staff and nurses are incredible and go above and beyond for patients and their families. It's a pleasure for us to support and donate towards the Hospice and we'll do anything else we can. Players and teams have collectively raised funds for the kits for cars campaign which is an incredible cause."
Tracy's late father Alan Tagell was a Hospice patient 23 years ago. Alan, who was 55, worked as a weaver.
