As a former maternity ward nurse, Jane relished supporting families at the beginning of life. Since joining the Butterfly volunteers just over two years ago, she now enjoys the same privilege in people’s final weeks and days. 

 

Jane works across Ipswich Hospital, and will sit and talk to patients, as well as listening to and supporting their families, in a role she describes as “humbling”.

“During my career, I was lucky enough to work on maternity wards at the beginning of life,” said Jane. “I feel that being there at the end is just as much of a privilege.

“My son died in my arms in Ipswich Hospital in 2009, and four years ago his widow also died. I therefore thought I might have both the personal and professional experience to offer the support that patients and their families may need.

“Spending time with somebody at the end of their life is a privilege, and I hope can be a relief and cushion for their families”

"I think we all sometimes feel that the patient knows we are there and can hear us – I think it is time very well spent. I also know it is something that nurses would love to do if they had the time, and so hope I am supporting them too.

 

“I know from conversations that families appreciate knowing that the Butterfly volunteers mean there is less chance that their relative will die alone. Over these last two years it has been very special to be able to give time to listen to the love with which so many describe dying members of their family.”