A KEIGHLEY man has paid tribute to the end-of-life care received by his late wife.

Alan Parry said she had a "brilliant experience" at Manorlands, the Oxenhope Sue Ryder hospice.

Ellie died at the hospice after battling against cancer.

"We had been together for fifteen years – happily married and living a full and active life," said Mr Parry.

"Her diagnosis of cancer completely turned our world upside down.

"We were in and out of hospital several times.

"After a few distressful experiences, Ellie refused to return to hospital even if she needed the care.

"Eventually we were put in touch with Manorlands and finally things changed for the best.

"Ellie had a brilliant experience.

"In accordance with her wishes, Manorlands arranged for a home visit from a community nurse specialist to help develop a care plan to meet her needs.

"The nurse suggested several services that would help Ellie at home. She organised for an occupational therapist from the hospice to visit and provide aids for bathing and a wheeled walker to help her get about. She also arranged for therapy sessions at the hospice, all of which gave Ellie more independence and quality of life.

"Arrangements were also made for district nurses appointments and out-of-hours emergency cover when needed.

"The most important benefit for Ellie was the knowledge that when the end came, her wish was not to die in hospital but to be at home or in the hospice. Assurances where given that her wishes would be carried out."

Ellie was admitted into the hospice in June for further treatment.

"She received the best care from doctors and nurses and other staff," said Mr Parry.

"This turned out to be the last week of Ellie's life. She passed away in a nice environment, with dignity and pain free."

Mr Parry was recently interviewed for an ITV news piece about end of life care, exploring differences in provision.

Sue Hogston, Sue Ryder chief nurse, said: "We understand that when dealing with people who are dying and their families, we only have one chance to get it right.

"Timely, clear and effective communication between the dying person and their loved ones is absolutely essential and what we have always believed to be the cornerstone of compassionate care.

"We help people to have difficult conversations every day and encourage people to talk openly about dying, death and bereavement."

Mr Parry is now producing a children's activity book to raise money for Manorlands.

The book will go on sale, for £4, in April.

Around 3,000 copies are being printed.

Businesses are being sought to sponsor the project.

Contact the Manorlands fundraising office on 01535 640430 or Mr Parry on 07757 232414 to offer help.