Its Rudolph Run campaign has raised a significant amount for patients and their families.
Hospice Tribute and Community Support
Representatives from hospices and palliative care organisations across Wales gathered at Nightingale House Hospice to mark the career of Mark Isherwood MS as he prepares to retire after more than two decades of public service. He has represented North Wales for 23 years and has been a consistent advocate for disability rights and end-of-life care. In addition, he chaired the Senedd Cross Party Group on hospices and palliative care, helping to ensure the sector’s voice is heard within Welsh politics.
Chair of Hospice UK and Liz Booyse, Chair of Hospices Cymru
Leaders from across the hospice sector reflected on his long-standing support and the impact of his work. Organisations including Hospices Cymru, Same but Different, STAND North Wales and the Polish Integration Support Centre were represented. As a result, the gathering recognised the role he has played in supporting patients, families and carers across Wales.
Liz Booyse, Chief Executive of City Hospice in Cardiff and Chair of Hospices Cymru, said, “Mark has been an incredible supporter of hospices across Wales for many years. Through his work in the Senedd and his leadership of the Cross-Party Group, he has helped ensure hospices have a strong voice in Parliament. Just as importantly, he has helped patients, families and carers feel that their experiences and needs are truly heard by those making decisions about healthcare in Wales.”
Recognition and Reflection
Toby Porter, Chief Executive of Hospice UK, also paid tribute, “Mark has been an advocate for Welsh hospices for many years, long before palliative care became a prominent topic in the media. Throughout his time as an MS, he has consistently championed the vital role hospices play in our communities, fighting for sustainable funding and ensuring that the needs of hospice patients and families find representation at the highest level.”
Responding, Mr Isherwood said, “It has been an honour to support the hospice movement during my time in the Senedd. The determination, compassion and professionalism shown by hospice staff and volunteers who work tirelessly to support people at the most difficult times in their lives has always inspired me. Hospices play an essential role in communities across Wales, and I have greatly valued the opportunity to work with such dedicated organisations.”
Lottery Milestone and Community Impact
Meanwhile, Nightingale House is also marking 30 years of its lottery, with supporter Rosetta Bennet recently winning a £2,500 jackpot. The milestone highlights the importance of community fundraising in supporting hospice services.
She said, “When I got the phone call, I honestly couldn’t believe it. I just kept saying ‘oh my gosh’. I never win anything, so to find out I’d won £2,500 from the Nightingale House Lottery was such a lovely surprise, especially just before Christmas.
“We’d only just booked a holiday, so it meant we could pay for that without worrying. It really was a wonderful day.” She added, “I don’t play the lottery for the prize money, I play it to give something back. Nightingale House Hospice has cared for members of my family, and the support and kindness we saw there was unbelievable.
“The staff and facilities were fantastic. It was like a hotel. The support my family received from the hospice made such a difference at a really difficult time. You never know when you might need a place like Nightingale House, so supporting the lottery feels like an easy way to help make sure it’s there for everyone who needs it.”
Ongoing Fundraising Success
In addition, the hospice has reported strong community support through its Rudolph Run campaign, which raised over £17,000. Schools, nurseries, colleges and businesses across the region took part. Consequently, the funds will support care across Wrexham, Flintshire, East Denbighshire and surrounding areas, ensuring the continued provision of specialist services for patients and families.
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