Barbara Smith discovered vital support for managing her chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) through specialist courses at the Being You Centre, operated by Moya Cole Hospice. Originally referred by the Pulmonary Rehabilitation team at Kingsgate House in Stockport, Barbara has accessed multiple programmes designed to address the specific challenges of life-limiting conditions.
Comprehensive Support for Life-Limiting Illnesses
The Being You Centre provides an extensive range of specialist services tailored for individuals living with progressive health conditions. These services are carefully structured to help patients manage their symptoms effectively, improving daily functioning and overall quality of life. The centre operates from two convenient locations in Heald Green and Little Hulton, offering flexible access through face-to-face appointments, online sessions, and telephone support.
Personalised Course Experience
Barbara has participated in several targeted courses at the hospice, including specific programmes focused on fatigue management and breathlessness control. She describes these educational sessions as "wonderful" and particularly values the group format that facilitates shared learning experiences. "I've learned so much," Barbara explains. "I've also enjoyed the experience of coming in and listening to other people's stories. It's all in group sessions, so you learn from other people as well."
The interconnected nature of COPD symptoms became particularly clear during Barbara's participation. "When you struggle with breathlessness, you struggle with fatigue as well," she notes, highlighting how the courses addressed these related challenges comprehensively. Barbara found the programmes directly relevant to her condition in every aspect, providing practical strategies for daily management.
Holistic Approach to Patient Care
Moya Cole Hospice adopts a comprehensive care model that addresses the multiple dimensions of living with progressive illness. The organisation recognises that patients may experience physical, psychological, emotional, and social difficulties that can diminish their sense of self. The Being You Centre specifically aims to help individuals regain their personal identity and improve their wellbeing despite health challenges.
Accessible Community Services
All Being You Centre services remain completely free of charge for patients, their carers, and family members. Beyond the centre's direct programming, Moya Cole Hospice extends its support through various community initiatives. These include Hospice at Home services available in Salford and Trafford, specialist palliative care teams operating in Salford, and dedicated palliative care support for Manchester's homeless population.
The hospice maintains a 24-hour telephone advice line serving patients, carers, and healthcare professionals across Salford, Manchester, Trafford, and Stockport. This comprehensive network ensures that support remains accessible whenever needed, complementing the inpatient care, day therapy, and outpatient services provided from the hospice's main sites in Heald Green, Stockport and Little Hulton, Salford.
Barbara summarises her experience positively: "I've just found the whole experience very positive." Her journey demonstrates how targeted support programmes can significantly improve daily life for those managing progressive respiratory conditions through education, peer support, and professional guidance.
