Strathcarron Stories Podcast

10: In conversation with Sarah and Libby for To Absent Friends Week

The first week in November marks To Absent Friends, an annual festival of remembrance and story-telling created to give people a focal point in the year to gather together, tell stories, celebrate and reminisce about people they love who have died.
 
In this Strathcarron Stories Podcast episode, we are joined in conversation by the wonderful Sarah and Libby. They share a special friendship, which has deepened over the past months. Both of their husbands died in the care of Strathcarron; at home and in the Hospice in-patient unit.
 
This is their story of grief, told with frankness, sadness and great humour.
 
Sarah said, "I’m amazed that I actually laughed out loud at some of our chat and I hope that means this podcast will go some way in breaking down the barriers and misconceptions around living through grief and loss". 
 
We are very grateful to Sarah and Libby, we thoroughly enjoyed our conversation, and hope you do too.
We hope you enjoy listening.
 
 
(Picture: L to R: Sarah and Libby)
 
Further Information:
- Strathcarron Hospice Bereavement Hub: Where you can find resources to support you in your grief: Bereavement Resources | Strathcarron Hospice
-  Find your nearest Snowdrop cafe, for friendship, support and a  cup of tea and a blether: Where is my local Strathcarron Snowdrop Cafe?
- Our Support Line is available to anyone locally, living with a life limiting condition. We are here to listen Live Your Life Team | Strathcarron Hospice
 
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By sharing people stories, we help to raise awareness of Strathcarron's services and impact, as well as to reduce the fear of Hospices and encourage more conversations about death and dying.Hosted by Ailsa (from Communications) and Ross (from IT) sees us out and about, speaking to our own staff, as well as people living with life limiting conditions and the families they support.We're nurses, doctors, social workers. We're volunteers, cleaners, cooks & therapists. We're fundraisers, administrators, accountants & physiotherapists. We will share their stories.We also aim to ask and answer your questions.The conversations we’ll have with our teams will be around their roles, impact and how each person supports people with life limiting conditions. We will also speak to volunteers, local organisations, fundraisers, schools - a whole host of people connected to the Hospice too.If you have any questions re hospice or palliative care, Strathcarron Hospice, or would like to be on the Podcast, or have a story to tell, please get in touch via our email Podcast@StrathcarronHospice.net.

09: Margaret-Anne explains Lymphoedema and support

In this episode, we have such an interesting conversation with Margaret-Anne Garner, one of the lymphoedema specialists Lymphoedema Team.
Margaret-Anne gives us insight into her own career path and how she got into supporting people with Lymphoedema and Lipoedema, as well as explaining more about how to identify these conditions and support local people living with them.
As the only specialist #lymphoedema clinic in @NHSForthValley, if you’ve the condition, or know someone who may have, speak to us about possible treatment: fv.strathcarron.lymphoedema@nhs.scot if you’ve any questions.
 
Information:
- Strathcarron's Lymphoedema and Lipoedema team: Lymphoedema Services | Strathcarron Hospice
- Join the Lymph Notes Choir: Join the Strathcarron Lymph Notes Choir | Strathcarron Hospice
- If you are a professional, you can also get in touch or refer: METLymphoedema Services | Strathcarron HospiceUPUK (start.page)
 
Thank you Margaret-Anne. 
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By sharing people stories, we help to raise awareness of Strathcarron's services and impact, as well as to reduce the fear of Hospices and encourage more conversations about death and dying.Hosted by Ailsa (from Communications) and Ross (from IT) sees us out and about, speaking to our own staff, as well as people living with life limiting conditions and the families they support.We're nurses, doctors, social workers. We're volunteers, cleaners, cooks & therapists. We're fundraisers, administrators, accountants & physiotherapists. We will share their stories.We also aim to ask and answer your questions.The conversations we’ll have with our teams will be around their roles, impact and how each person supports people with life limiting conditions. We will also speak to volunteers, local organisations, fundraisers, schools - a whole host of people connected to the Hospice too.If you have any questions re hospice or palliative care, Strathcarron Hospice, or would like to be on the Podcast, or have a story to tell, please get in touch via our email Podcast@StrathcarronHospice.net.

08: Hospice Care Week and our Charity Shops

For one week in October, Hospice Care Week shines a spotlight on hospices, and the amazing staff.
 
We know YOU, our local community do incredible things to support Strathcarron – from donating to our shops, to running marathons. But hospices need more support from governments to be able to play their full part in meeting the challenges we face in the UK’s healthcare system. For the first time ever, more money has been spent in hospice shops than has been given to hospices by the state. 
 
This year, Hospice Care Week takes place from 7 - 13 October 2024. This year’s theme will be all about hospice retail, and the role it plays in funding hospice services. We’ll be celebrating the brilliant contribution of all our Strathcarron Hospice shops across our local communities. From the staff, volunteers and everyone who donates and buys preloved, we are sharing their stories.
 
In this episode, we chat to Rebecca, a local Preloved Instagrammer on why she chooses to only buy second-hand, as well as Lucia, one of our shop managers and Andrew who in his 80s, still regularly volunteers in our shops.
 
We hope you enjoy listening.
 
Further Information:
- Strathcarron Hospice Shop locations: Where are Strathcarron Hospice Charity shops located?
- To book a preloved furniture collection Donate furniture and other items | Strathcarron Hospice
- Rebecca Reloves on Instagram: Rebecca reloves 🌏✨ (@rebeccareloves) • Instagram photos and videos and her Podcast: @thesustainabiliteapodcast
 
Thank you Rebecca, Andrew and Lucia. 
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By sharing people stories, we help to raise awareness of Strathcarron's services and impact, as well as to reduce the fear of Hospices and encourage more conversations about death and dying.Hosted by Ailsa (from Communications) and Ross (from IT) sees us out and about, speaking to our own staff, as well as people living with life limiting conditions and the families they support.We're nurses, doctors, social workers. We're volunteers, cleaners, cooks & therapists. We're fundraisers, administrators, accountants & physiotherapists. We will share their stories.We also aim to ask and answer your questions.The conversations we’ll have with our teams will be around their roles, impact and how each person supports people with life limiting conditions. We will also speak to volunteers, local organisations, fundraisers, schools - a whole host of people connected to the Hospice too.If you have any questions re hospice or palliative care, Strathcarron Hospice, or would like to be on the Podcast, or have a story to tell, please get in touch via our email Podcast@StrathcarronHospice.net.

07: Mandy and the Live Your Life Team

In this episode, we have a lovely chat with Mandy Malcolmson, the lead nurse of our Live Your Life team.
Mandy shares the incredible journey of transforming palliative care through the Live Your Life Hospice service.
Mandy recounts her experiences from managing 'daycare' services to adapting to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. She discusses how the team shifted from in-person daycare to a more flexible, phone-based support system that reaches a larger number of people within the community.
The episode delves into the importance of emotional support, active listening, and helping individuals with life-limiting illnesses live well. Mandy also highlights the critical role of carers and how the team supports them as well.
The conversation offers insights into the evolving model of palliative care and the impact it has on patients and their families.
Listeners will also learn about the team's approach to addressing barriers, maintaining hope, and promoting independence for those they support. Mandy's passion for her work and her team's dedication shine through, providing a heartfelt and informative look at palliative care.
 
- Information: Strathcarron's Live Your Life Team: Live Your Life Team | Strathcarron Hospice
- Laura's Instagram page: Laura McGowan 🐝💜 (@abcdfucancer) • Instagram photos and videos
- MetUp UK: METUPUK (start.page)
 
Thank you Laura. 
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By sharing people stories, we help to raise awareness of Strathcarron's services and impact, as well as to reduce the fear of Hospices and encourage more conversations about death and dying.Hosted by Ailsa (from Communications) and Ross (from IT) sees us out and about, speaking to our own staff, as well as people living with life limiting conditions and the families they support.We're nurses, doctors, social workers. We're volunteers, cleaners, cooks & therapists. We're fundraisers, administrators, accountants & physiotherapists. We will share their stories.We also aim to ask and answer your questions.The conversations we’ll have with our teams will be around their roles, impact and how each person supports people with life limiting conditions. We will also speak to volunteers, local organisations, fundraisers, schools - a whole host of people connected to the Hospice too.If you have any questions re hospice or palliative care, Strathcarron Hospice, or would like to be on the Podcast, or have a story to tell, please get in touch via our email Podcast@StrathcarronHospice.net.

06: Living with a Cancer diagnosis: Laura's story (Part 2)

Welcome back to part two of our inspiring conversation with Laura. In this episode, Laura delves deeper into her own Secondary Breast Cancer diagnosis and shares her personal journey with our Live Your Life team. She opens up about the misconceptions around palliative care and how it has positively impacted her life.
Laura also discusses her plans to create lasting memories with her daughter through creative activities, highlighting the importance of support and positivity during challenging times. This heartfelt episode underscores the significance of community and the profound difference that compassionate care can make.
Join us as we explore Laura's courageous story and the invaluable support provided by Strathcarron's Live Your Life team. This episode is a testament to resilience, hope, and the power of living life to the fullest.
Her story is heartbreaking and inspiring in equal measure. She is a beacon of positivity and light and we hope you enjoy the first part of her story. Laura is also being supported by our Live Your Life team, so she will be a regular guest as we travel alongside her on this journey.
She is an advocate of accessing palliative care as early as possible in your life limiting diagnosis. 
Further Information:
- Strathcarron's Live Your Life Team: Live Your Life Team | Strathcarron Hospice
- Laura's Instagram page: Laura McGowan 🐝💜 (@abcdfucancer) • Instagram photos and videos
- MetUp UK: METUPUK (start.page)
 
Thank you Laura. 
======
By sharing people stories, we help to raise awareness of Strathcarron's services and impact, as well as to reduce the fear of Hospices and encourage more conversations about death and dying.Hosted by Ailsa (from Communications) and Ross (from IT) sees us out and about, speaking to our own staff, as well as people living with life limiting conditions and the families they support.We're nurses, doctors, social workers. We're volunteers, cleaners, cooks & therapists. We're fundraisers, administrators, accountants & physiotherapists. We will share their stories.We also aim to ask and answer your questions.The conversations we’ll have with our teams will be around their roles, impact and how each person supports people with life limiting conditions. We will also speak to volunteers, local organisations, fundraisers, schools - a whole host of people connected to the Hospice too.If you have any questions re hospice or palliative care, Strathcarron Hospice, or would like to be on the Podcast, or have a story to tell, please get in touch via our email Podcast@StrathcarronHospice.net.

05: Susan Bateman on the Hospice ward

Join us for an as we sit down with Susan Bateman, the dedicated ward manager of our inpatient unit. Discover the intricacies of running a Hospice ward, the passion behind the care, and the personal journey that led Susan to this vital role.
We delve into the misconceptions about hospice care, emphasizing that it's not just about the final moments but about enhancing the quality of life for patients and their families. Susan shares touching stories, including her perspective on what she calls the "perfect death," and discusses the importance of holistic care in managing complex symptoms.
Gain insights into the collaborative effort of all our Hospice teams, the emotional resilience required, and how they support each other through the challenges and rewards of their work. Susan also opens up about her own life experiences, which have shaped her approach to palliative care and leadership.
This episode is a heartfelt tribute to the incredible work done by hospice teams and a reminder of the profound impact they have on the lives of their patients and the community.
 
Thank you Susan.
 
To contact Strathcarron direct, please call 01324 826222.....If you are an existing community patient and need to reach the CNS team and Hospice@Home teams, or have any queries about patient referrals, fundraising, administration - or anything else. 
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By sharing people stories, we help to raise awareness of Strathcarron's services and impact, as well as to reduce the fear of Hospices and encourage more conversations about death and dying.Hosted by Ailsa (from Communications) and Ross (from IT) sees us out and about, speaking to our own staff, as well as people living with life limiting conditions and the families they support.We're nurses, doctors, social workers. We're volunteers, cleaners, cooks & therapists. We're fundraisers, administrators, accountants & physiotherapists. We will share their stories.We also aim to ask and answer your questions.The conversations we’ll have with our teams will be around their roles, impact and how each person supports people with life limiting conditions. We will also speak to volunteers, local organisations, fundraisers, schools - a whole host of people connected to the Hospice too.If you have any questions re hospice or palliative care, Strathcarron Hospice, or would like to be on the Podcast, or have a story to tell, please get in touch via our email Podcast@StrathcarronHospice.net.

04: Denise Charity on Hospice at Home

Strathcarron’s Hospice at Home service celebrates double figures and is turning ten years old. Today, we chat to Denise Charity, the Lead Nurse for the service for the local Hospice charity providing specialist palliative and end of life care in the community. Denise shares her own personal story of why she chose to work in palliative care and provides us with an overview of the Hospice at Home service.
Strathcarron’s Hospice at Home service has been awarded the highest rating of ‘Grade 6’ and ‘Excellent’ across all evaluation parameters inspected by the Care Inspectorate for the last 5 inspections (2016-2023).
The specialist service was initially launched in 2014 with support from The Big Lottery Fund for five years. The grant ended on 31st July 2019.  As there has never been a funding commitment for Hospice at Home from the NHS, this service, that supports over 400 local people and their families each year, is mostly funded by the generosity of the local community who bake, run, jump, as well as donate and buy in Hospice charity shops to keep this vital Hospice service running.
Thank you Denise
 
For more information on the service, and if you have a professional referral: Hospice at Home | Strathcarron Hospice
 
For inspioration on how you could help support the hospice and fundraise for Strathcarron Hospice: Fundraising involvement | Strathcarron Hospice
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By sharing people stories, we help to raise awareness of Strathcarron's services and impact, as well as to reduce the fear of Hospices and encourage more conversations about death and dying.Hosted by Ailsa (from Communications) and Ross (from IT) sees us out and about, speaking to our own staff, as well as people living with life limiting conditions and the families they support.We're nurses, doctors, social workers. We're volunteers, cleaners, cooks & therapists. We're fundraisers, administrators, accountants & physiotherapists. We will share their stories.We also aim to ask and answer your questions.The conversations we’ll have with our teams will be around their roles, impact and how each person supports people with life limiting conditions. We will also speak to volunteers, local organisations, fundraisers, schools - a whole host of people connected to the Hospice too.If you have any questions re hospice or palliative care, Strathcarron Hospice, or would like to be on the Podcast, or have a story to tell, please get in touch via our email Podcast@StrathcarronHospice.net.
 

03. Living with grief and a cancer diagnosis: Laura's Story (Part 1)

Today's Strathcarron Story is from the wonderful Laura. 
Laura's sister died in Stratharron and now she is living with stage 4 incurable breast cancer. Her brother is also diagnosed with cancer too. 
Her story is heartbreaking and inspiring in equal measure. She is a beacon of positivity and light and we hope you enjoy the first part of her story. Laura is also being supported by our Live Your Life team, so she will be a regular guest as we travel alongside her on this journey.
In part two coming up, she chats how she's 'living her life'; supported by our palliative care teams. She is an advocate of accessing palliative care as early as possible in your life limiting diagnosis. 
- Information: Strathcarron's Live Your Life Team: Live Your Life Team | Strathcarron Hospice
- Laura's Instagram page: Laura McGowan 🐝💜 (@abcdfucancer) • Instagram photos and videos
 
Thank you Laura. 
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By sharing people stories, we help to raise awareness of Strathcarron's services and impact, as well as to reduce the fear of Hospices and encourage more conversations about death and dying.Hosted by Ailsa (from Communications) and Ross (from IT) sees us out and about, speaking to our own staff, as well as people living with life limiting conditions and the families they support.We're nurses, doctors, social workers. We're volunteers, cleaners, cooks & therapists. We're fundraisers, administrators, accountants & physiotherapists. We will share their stories.We also aim to ask and answer your questions.The conversations we’ll have with our teams will be around their roles, impact and how each person supports people with life limiting conditions. We will also speak to volunteers, local organisations, fundraisers, schools - a whole host of people connected to the Hospice too.If you have any questions re hospice or palliative care, Strathcarron Hospice, or would like to be on the Podcast, or have a story to tell, please get in touch via our email Podcast@StrathcarronHospice.net.

02. Our last conversation with CEO of Strathcarron before she retires: Irene McKie

The chief executive of Strathcarron Hospice is to retire this summer after 18 years at the helm.
 
Under her leadership, Irene McKie has helped the hospice significantly develop our services and income with a 74 per cent increase in patient referrals.
In this episode, you'll hear an insight into her leadership, key moments over her time as CEO and more about her as a person. 
As Irene retires today (31 July 2024), we wish her all the very best in her next exciting journey...and wonder if she will write that book! :)
 
By sharing people stories, we help to raise awareness of Strathcarron Hospice's services and impact, as well as to reduce the fear of Hospices and encourage more conversations about death and dying.
The new Strathcarron Podcast, hosted by Ailsa (Communications Manager) and Ross (from IT) will see them out and about, speaking to our own staff, as well as people living with life limiting conditions and the families they support.
 
The best thing about Strathcarron, is the people. These highly dedicated, specialist teams across the Hospice and out in our local communities, to the people living with life limiting conditions and the families they support.
This Podcast will tell their stories.
We are nurses, doctors, social workers. We are volunteers, cleaners, cooks & therapists. We are fundraisers, accountants & physiotherapists.
We aim to ask and answer your questions. The conversations we’ll have with our teams will be around their roles, their impact and how each person supports people with life limiting conditions. We will also speak to patients, families, volunteers, schools - a whole host of people linked with the Hospice too.
If you have a story to tell, get in touch via our social media channels or email Podcast@StrathcarronHospice.net
 

01. Strathcarron Stories Intro

By sharing people stories, we help to raise awareness of Strathcarron Hospice's services and impact, as well as to reduce the fear of Hospices and encourage more conversations about death and dying.
 
The new Strathcarron Podcast, hosted by Ailsa (Communications Manager) and Ross (from IT) will see them out and about, speaking to our own staff, as well as people living with life limiting conditions and the families they support.
 
The best thing about Strathcarron, is the people. These highly dedicated, specialist teams across the Hospice and out in our local communities, to the people living with life limiting conditions and the families they support. This Podcast will tell their stories.
We are nurses, doctors, social workers. We are volunteers, cleaners, cooks & therapists. We are fundraisers, accountants & physiotherapists.
We aim to ask and answer your questions. The conversations we’ll have with our teams will be around their roles, their impact and how each person supports people with life limiting conditions. We will also speak to patients, families, volunteers, schools - a whole host of people linked with the Hospice too.
If you have a story to tell, get in touch via our social media channels or email Podcast@StrathcarronHospice.net