By Leicester Mercury | Posted: September 28, 2015
Elaine Godber's "wonderful" father died following a short battle with cancer.
Although he did not die at LOROS, she says it was only thanks to the team at the hospice and the support they were given that he was able to die at home, as was his wish.
Two years later, Elaine's Uncle Tom, who also died from cancer, gained much-needed support from the Groby Road hospice.
Three years ago, Elaine, of Oadby, started working at LOROS, the charity that has supported and cared for her and her family through some of the hardest times of their lives.
"For me, I think it was all about having a job that has meaning to it," said Elaine, the corporate and community relations co-ordinator at the hospice.
"I never forget a LOROS nurse who offered comfort as I sat by Uncle Tom's bed," she said.
"I remember the nurse joking with me and not only did that bring a smile to a sad situation, but he also held my hand, which reassured me and made me feel better – I was so grateful to him.
"I know how much of a difference LOROS makes to people's lives – I don't think you realise just how fantastic the hospice is until you experience it yourself and I want to make a difference too."
Elaine's dad, Jim Waldron, died in 2005 at the age of 74.
His brother, to whom he was extremely close, died two years later, age 77.
They both experienced the fantastic work LOROS does and the hospice assisted in putting a care package in place, so they could both die at home.
"It was really comforting to know we could contact LOROS whenever we needed to," said Elaine.
"And after Dad died, I was given counselling.
"At the time, I almost had this fear of counselling, I didn't think I needed it. I even said to the counsellor, I don't need it and she said 'yes you do' – it was a relief to hear that. It was a real support."
Coming from Southern Ireland and moving to Leicestershire, both Jim and Tom were active members of various Irish groups within the city.
In their memory, Elaine is creating a Book of Remembrance, which will enable anyone to remember loved ones with an Irish background or connection.
The book will then be on show later this year at LOROS.
"Dad was a huge part of the Irish community and I want to carry on his legacy," added Elaine.
For more information on the book, e-mail elainegodber@loros.co.uk
To help Loros continue supporting people such as Jim and Tom, get involved with its 30 for 30 campaign by visiting: www.loros.co.uk/30for30
