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Did you know... One in three people have been touched by hospice care
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Mike's story

Mike is in his early 60s and cares for his partner Paul. Paul has HIV/AIDS and was diagnosed with lymphatic cancer in 2002. Paul has variable energy levels so that some days he can help with the housework and get out and about, but on other days he cannot do anything.

 

Caring for Paul has had a good side as it means he doesn't put things off, and Mike and Paul say the things that need to be said. Both of them have tried to enjoy life and celebrate each day as much as they can, although there is an element of fear the whole time.

 

Paul visits his local day care service at the hospice. He is also a guest trustee working on extending the buildings.

 

Support group

Every month, Mike attends the hospice's carers group: they share problems, and talk about a wide range of medication and other issues.

 

Mike feels he has had time to prepare:

"The hospice gives me support, so I'm not left high and dry. I feel the team are there for me now and will help me put my life back together when it comes to grieving."