Lucy was full of life, with a cheeky smile and a dimple that made her laugh even brighter. She loved her clothes, holidays, and always made sure she looked immaculate. Her nails were a constant source of pride, perfectly painted right up until the very end.
Jan, Lucy's mum and a fundraising volunteer at the hospice talks about her beautiful daughter and how she'll be keeping her memory alive this December.
Lucy was a true girly girl, she always had cotton buds in her handbag, just in case her mascara smudged. Bubbly, funny, and beautiful inside and out, Lucy was my baby, and her presence lit up every room.
Lucy was just 25 when she died and next February, she would have turned 40.
Her illness came suddenly. Diagnosed with cervical cancer, we lost her within a year. Watching someone so young endure so much was heartbreaking, but through it all, Lucy never lost her spirit, pride, or smile.
Jan“The hospice became like family to us”
When Lucy became ill, I turned our dining room into a bedroom so she could stay at home. That was when the hospice first stepped in to help. Lucy became one of the very first patients on a new pilot scheme, where carers visited families in their own homes.
They came three or four times a day, every day, bringing not only medical support but also warmth and laughter. They treated Lucy with dignity and kindness – joking with her, asking if the kettle was on, and quickly becoming like family.
For me, they lifted a huge burden. Knowing I wasn’t alone, that someone else was there to help, gave me moments of peace and precious time with Lucy. I will never forget the care they gave her and to us as a family.
Lucy and Jan
“I promised myself I’d give back”
After Lucy died, I promised myself that one day I would give back to the hospice. When I was made redundant during the pandemic, I finally had the time to volunteer.
Since then, I’ve helped in the shops, supported fundraising events, and done whatever I can to say thank you for the love and care we received.
Jan"Dedicating a light to Lucy is a way of keeping her memory alive. Seeing her star hanging on the hospice tree reminds me that she is not forgotten."
A beautiful, meaningful way to remember those we love
Community Hospice’s Lights of Love service is such an important part of my year. It brings families who have lost loved ones together at a magical time, but one that can also feel very hard when you are grieving.
For me, dedicating a light to Lucy is a way of keeping her memory alive. Seeing her star hanging on the hospice tree reminds me that she is not forgotten. Standing with other families gives me comfort and hope.
This year, the Lights of Love service will be held on Sunday, 30 November 2025, and I will be dedicating a light in memory of Lucy.
Lucy, Chris and Jan
“Please join me in remembering”
I encourage you, no matter how long it has been, to dedicate a light this year. It is a beautiful way to keep your loved one’s memory alive while helping the hospice provide the same care and comfort Lucy received.
Please join me and dedicate a light in memory of someone special this Christmas. Together, we can fill the hospice tree with stars that shine for those we love and ensure the hospice is there for families who need them in the future.
The hospice was there for Lucy and for me, and they continue to be there for so many families. But they can only keep doing this with your support.
With love and gratitude,
Jan Clark
Fundraising Volunteer and proud mum of Lucy
