Former Stars in Their Eyes Singer Delights Moya Cole Hospice with Special Performance
Last Friday, Moya Cole Hospice was treated to a heartfelt musical performance by Shirley Awan, a former contestant on the popular TV show Stars in Their Eyes. The singer, originally from Cheadle, entertained patients, their families, and dedicated staff members with a selection of classic tunes, bringing joy and comfort to the hospice environment.
A Nostalgic Setlist and TV Memories
Shirley Awan captivated the audience with renditions of timeless songs, including Fly me to the Moon by Frank Sinatra, Perhaps Perhaps Perhaps by Doris Day, and Lipstick on Your Collar by Connie Francis. Her appearance on Stars in Their Eyes in 2002, where she impersonated Irish singer Dana and performed the Eurovision-winning song All Kinds of Everything, remains a cherished memory. Shirley fondly recalled, “I remember when I was on Stars in Their Eyes, Matthew Kelly described me as having a purity of tone. I always use it in my biographies now because it was so nice to get that compliment.”
From Nursery Work to Full-Time Singing
Before pursuing her passion for music more extensively, Shirley worked in a nursery for over twenty years, eventually leaving the council to co-found her own nursery with a friend. She explained, “We sold that last year so now I’m able to do more singing. Now I just want to sing and I would love to get my songs on the radio.” This transition has allowed her to focus on performing, often with jazz bands, at venues in Wales and private events, while maintaining an online presence on Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram under the handle shirleyawansings.
Personal Connection to Moya Cole Hospice
Shirley’s performance was deeply personal, driven by her own family’s experience with the hospice. She shared, “My dad came here for a few weeks, and he was looked after really well. He was here November last year. He’s still not well, but when he was here, they took great care of him. I sang when he was in here on his ward. He loved it.” This connection motivated her to give back through music, highlighting the compassionate care provided by the hospice.
Comprehensive Care Services at Moya Cole Hospice
Moya Cole Hospice offers holistic care for patients with life-limiting illnesses, including:
- Inpatient care at sites in Heald Green, Stockport, and Little Hulton, Salford.
- Day therapy and supportive outpatient services.
- Community and outreach programs, such as the Hospice at Home service in Salford and Trafford.
- A Community Specialist Palliative Care Team in Salford and a homelessness palliative care service in Manchester.
- A 24-hour telephone advice line available to patients, carers, and healthcare professionals across Salford, Manchester, Trafford, and Stockport.
This performance underscores the hospice’s role in fostering community support and enhancing the well-being of those it serves through meaningful engagements like Shirley Awan’s concert.
