Kentish Express Ashford & District
A treat for hospice patients as choir perform for them
The Pilgrims Hospice at Ashford was filled with song thanks to a visit from a talented group of volunteers.
A 30-strong choir from Shepway Voices sang for patients and families being cared for on the inpatient ward.
One of the patients, John Norton, had been a long-standing member of the choir. He died several days after the visit.
Pilgrims Hospices chief executive, Cate Russell, said: “The feeling of love and warmth was really touching for all of us in the room.
“It was especially moving to see the choir sing some of John’s favourite pieces.”
The nurses brought John and other patients into the chapel and made sure they were comfortable, while hospice manager Wendy Kelk and her team squeezed everyone in and served mince pies.
Cate added: “At Pilgrims we understand that for people with a life limiting illness and their families, whether they’re cared for on our wards, in their own homes or as out patients through our therapy centres, every moment spent together is a moment you will remember.
“That’s why it’s so important we can support people using our services to do the things that matter most to them.
“For that half an hour concert John said it was as if he was back with his choir. Moments like that make all our work, and the generous support of our community, worthwhile.”
During the visit, Shepway Voices also donated £500 to the hospice, which was raised by a performance at the Leas Cliff Hall.
John Norton sadly died the week after the choir performed at Ashford, surrounded by his family and close friends.
To find out more about Pilgrims Hospice, visit www. pilgrimshospices.org
‘Moments like that make all our work, and the generous support of our community, worthwhile’