Eileen’s Story

Eileen, a 94-year-old woman with a lifelong passion for singing and dancing, has been receiving hospice care from St Margaret’s. Diagnosed with a cancerous tumour in her neck, Eileen required not only medical support but also emotional companionship and personal fulfilment. Through the dedicated care of Ralph Langworthy–Smith and the team at St Margaret’s, Eileen has found comfort, dignity, and joy within hospice care —culminating in the fulfilment of her final wish, to dance again. 

Medical Care and Support 

Eileen was referred to hospice care towards the end of summer 2024 when her condition required more specialised attention. As her illness progressed, she needed regular support, which was provided by Ralph, a clinical nurse specialist from the hospice’s community team. Unlike many medical services constrained by time, Ralph was able to tailor his visits to meet Eileen’s needs, offering not just clinical care but also a listening ear and reassurance. 

One of the essential aspects of hospice care is advanced care planning—helping patients navigate their journey with as much ease and foresight as possible. By ensuring that Eileen, her family, and the staff at her supported living facility were informed and prepared for potential changes in her condition, Ralph and the hospice team created a safety net, reducing uncertainty and fear. 

From the beginning, Ralph understood that his role went beyond medical treatment. It was about preserving who Eileen was—not just keeping her comfortable but keeping her spirit alive. 

More Than Just Medical Care 

A self-described extrovert, Eileen had always thrived in social settings. From childhood, she was drawn to performing, whether singing in school productions, entertaining at hospitals during the war, or ballroom dancing with her late husband. 

“When we first met, she was very excited,” Ralph recalled. “Eileen very much likes male company—she’s had three husbands—and every week when I visit, she tells me how much she looks forward to it. She actually wakes up smiling on the mornings I come.”

Eileen echoed this, saying, “Oh, I felt much better when you come to visit. It has helped me a lot because I know I’m nearing my time.” 

Through regular visits, Ralph and the hospice team became more than just caregivers—they became trusted friends. They listened to Eileen’s stories, laughed with her, and provided a safe space where she could express her fears and hopes. 

One day, while reminiscing, Eileen shared a wish: she wanted to dance again. 

“She and her last husband were well known in the local dancing circles,” Ralph explained. “Even after breaking her leg twice—once in the kitchen, once on a ballroom floor in Torquay—she kept dancing. But gradually, as her illness progressed, she had to stop. And that was hard for her.” 

The team at St Margaret’s knew they had to make this happen.

Eileen was thrilled. “I love it! I love music, I love dancing.” 

On the day of the event, Eileen walked into a room filled with friends and family –  a moment that left her “blown away.” As the music played, Ralph and district nurse Bradley took turns dancing with her, despite their self-proclaimed lack of skill. 

Eileen was overcome with gratitude. “Oh, I do love it! I love you all. And thank you, thank you,” she said. 

For Eileen, this wasn’t just a dance—it was a moment that brought back a lifetime of joy. And for her family, it became a cherished memory they will hold onto forever. 

At St Margaret’s, hospice care isn’t just about the end of life—it’s about celebrating life and living well. For Eileen, that meant one final dance. And thanks to the compassion of her hospice team, her wish was fulfilled. 

Thank you to Abbeyfield Wessex society Woodlands house – Sheltered housing for working with the hospice, providing the ‘dancefloor’ and organising a fabulous tea party for all the guests.