A Family's Hospice Legacy: Three Generations of Dedication
A cherished photograph from November 2018 captures three generations of the same family united in their support for East Cheshire Hospice. The image shows Phyll Wood, her daughter Jan Lakin, and granddaughter Emily, gathered to celebrate Phyll's remarkable 15 years of service as a dedicated volunteer. This moment of pride and family connection now carries profound emotional weight, as tragically, both Phyll and Emily are no longer here.
A Heartbreaking Double Loss
Phyll Wood, whose volunteer work spanned a decade and a half, passed away in August 2022 at the age of 95. Just over a month later, in late September, her granddaughter Emily died at only 38 years old. Emily, a personal trainer who also worked at The Tytherington Club and Bollington Leisure Centre, spent her final days as a patient at the very hospice her family had long supported. It was her specific wish to be there, recalling the happy memories her grandmother and mother – who also volunteered – had created within the charity's walls.
Emily's Courageous Battle and Final Wishes
Emily's connection to the hospice was deeply personal. While preparing for her own stay, she even unearthed an old newspaper cutting featuring that very photograph of her grandmother's long service award. Her journey began when she was diagnosed with bowel cancer in March 2024, following initial stomach pains dismissed as over-indulgence during birthday and Christmas celebrations. Tests revealed a large tumour, which was surgically removed.
"Emily was very positive and determined," her mother Jan recalled. "She used to say, 'it is what it is, and I’ve just got to deal with it.' I’m afraid I’ve adopted that phrase and must deal with not having her around. It has been a horrible two years, though we’ve lots of lovely memories, including her wedding day."
After initially being given the all-clear, Emily received the devastating news last spring that the cancer had spread. She underwent 20 rounds of chemotherapy, but none proved effective. With time precious, she quickly arranged her wedding to partner Adam Smith, with their young sons Orly and Arlo serving as guests of honour.
A Poignant and Personal Hospice Arrival
Emily chose the hospice for her final care, not wanting to die at home because of her boys. The family connection made the location especially meaningful. Her arrival was marked by a uniquely poignant moment. "Emily arrived there in true style," Jan shared. "Alpacas crossed the car park after an event at the Sunflower Living Well Centre and a brass band started playing as she settled into her room. Emily sat there laughing, saying, 'mum I’m in the right place and what a welcome!'"
Raising Awareness Through Personal Experience
Throughout her illness, Emily documented her journey on her Instagram page, i.cancervive, aiming to raise crucial awareness about the importance of following up on bowel cancer symptoms. Her story underscores the vital need for vigilance and early intervention. The family's enduring support for East Cheshire Hospice, now spanning generations and encompassing both service and receipt of care, stands as a powerful testament to community, compassion, and resilience in the face of profound loss.
