Claire Mincher from Colyford was admitted to our hospice ward in Exeter shortly before her 50th birthday. Her hopes of raising a glass on a Barbados beach were dashed, but our hospice team, along with Claire’s friends, were determined she celebrate in style.
Hospiscare’s supportive care team, community fundraisers and catering staff planned a fully catered party for Claire. Occupational Therapist, Heather Parsons, also applied for funding from a charitable trust to cover some of the costs.
Claire really wanted a big party vibe for her 50th so hospice staff and Claire’s friends began investigating venues.
Framed photos of Claire enjoying good times with friends set opposite her bed on Hospiscare’s ward
Claire explains, “We were all set to go ahead with a local pub, when my friend got a call back from Winslade Manor – they had a cancellation and were happy to provide the room for free.
“It’s like something out of The Only Way is Essex – that’s the only way I can describe it. It’s just stunning. I was gobsmacked that this venue had come along at the right time.
“I’ve ordered some massive cakes from my favourite cake shop – a birthday cake, two boxes of cupcakes, and two boxes of mini cheesecakes! All I want on the day is a glass of fizz and a cake, a cheesecake preferably.
“My friends are organising the decorations. One of my friends turned 50 not long ago so we’ve got bottles with lights in and strings of fairy lights that we can pin photos to. We’re going to make it look really pretty.
“It’s all worked out better than I honestly could have imagined in my dreams. I’ve booked a DJ to play dance classics, and drum and bass because my children, who are 14 and 17, love drum and bass. I can just see all the adults dancing and my kids cringing!”
Claire (left) with her friend at her 50th birthday party
As it was so important to Claire to capture memories from the day, our supportive care team reached out to our area fundraisers for help organising a photo booth.
East Devon Area Fundraiser, Toni Hiscocks, appealed to the community via social media, writing “Hospiscare is there when it matters most – providing care, comfort and compassion during life’s most difficult moments.
“Right now, we are supporting a loving mum who is staying at the hospice. This incredible lady will shortly be celebrating her 50th birthday whilst staying here at our specialist ward.
“Our supportive care team are helping to plan and organise a very special party with her nearest and dearest. To make the day even more memorable, we’d love to source a photo booth so she, her family, and friends can capture joyful moments together.”
Claire (centre) surrounded by friends at her 50th birthday party
When the photo booth company cancelled on the day of the party, Hospiscare was there once again. Busy blowing up balloons to create the decorative arch next to the DJ, Heather stepped out of her role as Occupational Therapist and into the role of photographer.
The nurses on our specialist ward were on hand, along with Claire’s friends, to get her dressed and ready for her animal print themed party.
Claire (left) and her friend taking a selfie at her animal print themed party
Speaking after the party, Claire continues, “I had the most wonderful time. I sat at a table with a glass of fizz and a cheesecake from my favourite bakery while a procession of guests wished me happy birthday. I didn’t want to use a wheelchair, and I even managed a dance at the end to my favourite song, Lola’s Theme by The Shapeshifters.
“I invited 50 people but more came than I expected. There were people there that I hadn’t seen in 10 years! There was a lot of crying, but I had a fantastic time.
“I made it clear on the invitations that I didn’t want presents; I just asked for donations to Hospiscare. I’m well enough to go home next week and that’s all thanks to them. They’re all angels here.
“I’m really going to miss everyone here on the ward. Everybody has been amazing. I’ve never met a nicer bunch of people. They come for a chat, and they listen; they always take the time. I’m really sad to be leaving, even though I’m happy to go home. I know I’ll want to come back. It’s just wonderful here – a really special place.”
