On 3rd September, about 60 people enjoyed a reunion at the LOROS Founders Drinks Reception as part of a programme of events to mark the 25th anniversary. The first patient was admitted to the LOROS hospice on Groby Road, Leicester, in September 1985.
People who were instrumental in founding the charity, or were involved in the first few years after the Hospice was opened, were invited back to commemorate and celebrate what has been achieved. For some this was the first time they had returned for many years and they enjoyed a guided tour and a review of how LOROS’ care services have developed.
Dr Andrew Cull, who was a GP in Leicester in the 1970s but now practices in London, gave a short speech outlining how he and a group of other local people, including Mr Mick Marvell, were inspired to create a local hospice.
They worked ceaselessly with extraordinary energy and determination to define the aims, register the charity officially in 1977 and stimulate fundraising. This led to an increasing ground swell of support from the community of Leicestershire and Rutland.
By 1984, sufficient funds had been raised to progress the construction of the first building on the old Groby Road Hospital site. Dr Cull also provided an insight as to how the clinical and nursing care was first provided.
The Hospice Matron from 1985 to 2001, Mrs Bronwen Biswas, developed this theme and described some of the challenges in the early years and how the care services were broadened over time.
Lady Clarissa Palmer and Mrs Barbara Keene, the President and Chairman respectively at the time the hospice opened, cut a 25th anniversary cake, kindly provided by Hospice volunteer Jan McNulty.
Local artist Olwen Hughes generously created and donated a pen and ink drawing of the Hospice which was unveiled by Bronwen and Wendy Taylor, one of the first nurses and now the In-patient Services Manager.
Current President of LOROS, Jennifer, Lady Gretton, closed the event by thanking the guests for their marvellous contribution to the development of the charity over so many years. Everyone then toasted 'LOROS - Past, Present and Future'.
