Light up a Life Service

For Tony Lake, the Light Up a Life service at Durham Cathedral has been a treasured tradition since his wife Susan passed away in our care in 2013.

“The first year I attended, I remember thinking how tremendous it was — emotional, but wonderful. And it’s felt the same way every time I’ve attended since. The atmosphere and setting are just something you shouldn’t miss. It’s lovely to light a candle for Susan and I’d recommend it to anybody, even if the person you’re remembering wasn’t connected to St Cuthbert’s, you’d be made to feel welcome. I sometimes go alone, sometimes with family, and I often meet people I know who are there remembering their loved ones. Everyone there is united by a common purpose: to remember someone they love and miss.”

“Susan received such wonderful care at St Cuthbert’s. I could never say thank you enough for all they did for us.”

Susan was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2010 and initially cared for at Durham, but later transferred to the Freeman in Newcastle. A new treatment was available to her which was successful, and she was given the all clear. Sadly, the cancer returned, not once but twice.

“Susan never let it get her down. She attended her radiotherapy and chemotherapy appointments and always insisted that she be first in line for the day, so she could go to work afterwards. She lost her hair and, as a consequence of the treatment, she developed Lymphedema. Susan had fallen and badly broken her elbow which was causing her a lot of pain and discomfort. It was suggested that she be referred to St Cuthbert’s to help get the pain under control. Sadly the cancer had spread and she didn’t get better.”

“The way we were looked after was just wonderful. Nothing was too much trouble and it was a time to make the most of every day. It was summertime and I remember we even had a gathering, a party if you like, on the veranda.”

“I like to come to the Hospice on special days, like our anniversary, Susan’s birthday and the day she died. Light Up a Life is one of the many ways I remember Susan. It’s important to me to support the Hospice. Had other families not done so in the past, we wouldn’t have been able to receive the care that we did. It’s an honour to continue that care for others.”