A photography exhibition featuring images taken by people with a terminal illness and those close to them has been held at the Marie Curie Hospice in Penarth. The exhibition highlighted photographs created by individuals affected by life-limiting illnesses, including carers, family, and friends.
Mindful Photography Project
Dozens of photographs were displayed by participants who had taken part in a six-week Mindful Photography project as part of the Create and Chat group at the hospice's Wellbeing and Support Hub (WaSH). The project ran from May and was supported by accredited mindfulness teacher Kate Tucker, who has trained in Mindful Photography. Participants reflected on their lives and stories to create the images.
Remembering Sally Sarl
Several images were taken by Sally Sarl, who died before the exhibition was held. Her family, including her husband Mike, sons Alex and Ross, and their partners, attended the event to see the photos and pay tribute to her. One of the images featured photographs of Sally's hands with those of Kevin Pletts. The pair developed a close friendship during their time in the Create and Chat group, and the photo represented unity to them.
Kevin, who has terminal lung cancer, attends various groups at the hub for wellbeing support. About the Mindful Photography project, he said: "It's allowed me to see simple things in a completely new light. The photos of mine and Sally's hands speak for themselves, but my photos of the things I'd selected to resin, which I threw on the table and then took a photo of, sort of came together. And the flower standing tall and proud spoke to me, too."
Volunteer Involvement
Volunteer Toby Davis also had some photos displayed. He began volunteering at the hub after his mother died at the hospice. He said: "I think this is the project that has resonated the most with people. It's really had an impact on everyone."
Wellbeing and Support Hub
The Wellbeing and Support Hub at the Bridgeman Road hospice regularly provides therapy and companionship to outpatients and those close to them from the surrounding community. Services range from practical support such as a regular Citizens' Advice clinic, support groups for discussing feelings and problems, to exercise classes, creative groups, and complementary therapies. The hub is also open to inpatients staying within the hospice's wards.
Anne Edwards, Marie Curie wellbeing activities coordinator, said: "The project has been about honouring their own stories, finding connection and leaving behind something deeply personal and meaningful. To be able to show Sally's work so soon after her death has given everyone involved in the project a way to remember her and allowed the family to see what she got out of coming to the Create and Chat group."
Mindfulness and Photography
Kate Tucker, who led the project, said: "Mindfulness is about being in the present moment, letting go of what's already happened or worrying about the future. By bringing together mindfulness and photography through a variety of different themes in these sessions, we experience the process of creating photographs without any expectations and by enjoying the creativity. It allowed everyone to really notice what's here, to notice all the beauty and wonder in the everyday that otherwise passes us by, and to connect with the present moment through engaging their senses."
About Marie Curie
Marie Curie provides expert end-of-life care for people with any illness they are likely to die from, and support for their family and friends, in their hospices and where they live. It is the largest charity funder of palliative and end-of-life care research in the UK and campaigns to ensure everyone has a good end-of-life experience. The charity also provides an Information and Support Service.
Upcoming Songwriting Project
The charity's next project begins on Thursday, July 23, from 11am to 12.30pm and runs for six weeks. It will focus on songwriting, with participants exploring memories, emotions, poetry, and music together to create meaningful songs that celebrate life and tell personal stories. To join, email wellbeingandspporthub@mariecurie.org.uk or call 02920 426 000. For more information about supporting the charity, visit www.mariecurie.org.uk/services/hospices/support-us. If you are living with terminal illness or have been affected by death, dying, or bereavement, you can access support at mariecurie.org.uk or by calling the free support line at 0800 090 2309.
