‘I needed help and Rainbows was there’
MUM SPEAKS OUT IN PRAISE OF SUPPORT FROM HOSPICE
THE mum of a man supported by Rainbows hospice for over a decade has spoken about the difference it made to their lives.
Jordan Wellborn was poorly from birth. He had hydrocephalous – a build up of fluid on the brain – epilepsy and respiratory problems. He died in April 2020, at the age of 25.
Mum Julie, of Wigston, also had to look after Jordan’s older brother Leo, who also has additional needs.
“When I first heard Rainbows was a hospice, I was not interested,” she said.
“But when we eventually went to stay, I realised Rainbows could not only care for Jordan as well as I could at home, they also supported Leo, giving the boys the time of their lives.
“When I went to Rainbows it felt like a weight had lifted. I never thought of it as a sad place, there is a great atmosphere and so much support. We were all settled, comfortable and peaceful at Rainbows, especially Jordan.
“And the help from my family support nurse encouraged me to be that strong advocate for Jordan that I needed to be. She was there when I felt anxious or felt alone in it all.
“Also, it was while I was at Rainbows that I got to know other parents. To meet people who understood was such a relief and helped me be strong.”
By the age of 11, Jordan could not bear his own weight on his legs and needed a wheelchair. He was also tube fed to avoid choking.
Jordan communicated through his eyes. “He had a cheeky face and quite a sense of humour,” she said.
“He was a real joker; same mischief was always there even as his condition got worse.
“The week that Jordan passed was tough. He had an infection and was making unusual bronchial noises.
“He had to go to hospital but it was in the height of the Covid lockdown so I was unable to accompany him, and he died without me.
“At this point Rainbows picked me up. It was as though they scooped me up in their arms. I needed help and they were there.
“They supported me to arrange the funeral and assisted with bringing Jordan to rest at Rainbows. Here we could see Jordan, and I could say goodbye, and slowly come to terms with all that had happened.
“Leo misses Jordan terribly, but that has made Leo and I closer, we have needed each other.
“I’m strong, but I still have my moments. I’m still in touch with family support with regular calls. I know that there is always someone at the end of the phone. It is reassuring.”