Andi’s Journey: Finding Community and Comfort at Lindsey Lodge Hospice

When Andi was first referred to our Wellbeing Centre in November 2023 by Dr. Riaz, who suggested it could support her wellbeing while living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS), her initial reaction was one of hesitation. “But I’m not dying,” she thought, “why would I go to a hospice?” Like many, Andi wasn’t aware that Lindsey Lodge Hospice offers support to individuals living with long-term conditions and worried she might feel out of place.

Despite her reservations, Andi decided to give it a try – just once, to say she had. That single visit changed everything. Andi has been coming to our Wellbeing Centre every Friday since and loves it.

One of the most profound impacts for Andi has been the power of peer-to-peer connection. She’s discovered a truly invaluable sense of belonging with others who intimately understand what she’s going through.

“Our group has all become firm friends,” Andi shares

“We share the highs and lows with each other with no embarrassment or judgment. It feels wonderful to be part of an environment like that.”

This shared understanding creates a unique space where laughter, tears, and everyday frustrations can be openly expressed without the need for explanation or fear of being misunderstood. In a world where living with a long-term condition can sometimes feel isolating, these connections have become a vital lifeline.

This supportive community has even allowed Andi to connect with someone else who has the same secondary progressive version of MS, providing a deeper, more specific level of mutual support that is difficult to find elsewhere. They’re able to discuss specific challenges, share coping strategies, and simply be a sounding board for each other, forging a bond built on shared experience and empathy.

Andi cherishes a particular memory: giving another patient her old scooter. The joy of seeing videos of the patient’s newfound independence, getting out to the shops and experiencing a new lease of life, was truly “amazing” for Andi.

Beyond the camaraderie, Andi deeply values the weekly medical touchpoint available at the centre. Knowing she has access to medical advice and support if needed helps her feel truly cared for. She recalls a time when, after a fall, our doctor checked her over and the team even helped her source a new walking frame.

Andi’s experience has been so positive that she recently chose to come to Lindsey Lodge for respite care. This vital service has given her husband a much-needed break from his caring duties, allowing him to enjoy his free time without worry. Andi is absolutely loving her time in respite and wholeheartedly believes “it is worth every penny.” She raves about the exceptional care:

“The care is fantastic, nothing is too much trouble. I get three amazing meals every day brought to me and everything is set up to allow me to be as independent as I can be Every single person I have met from the amazing cleaning team, the wonderful nurses and friendly marketing team have been so lovely to me. Kindness oozes around the place, I simply love being here.”

Lindsey Lodge Hospice has truly transformed Andi’s life. It provides her with something wonderful to look forward to every week and a constant reassurance of a support network that’s there for her every step of the way. Andi extends her gratitude to Dr. Riaz for the referral and encourages anyone offered our services to “jump straight in – you won’t regret it!”

Respite at Lindsey Lodge Hospice costs £150 a night