Some say it’s sad that Maddie Zygmunt had to understand what a hospice is at just four years old. Here, Maddie explains why they are wrong.

My family has been cared for by Trinity Hospice for most of my life.

They don’t just look after a patient; they take care of the whole family. I experienced this when I lost my little sister, when she was just 16 weeks old, at Brian House on my 5^th birthday. They made sure my birthday wasn’t a day of sorrow, and I remember them each year as I blow out my candles.

Then, just a few years later, mum was diagnosed with Lymphoedema and my whole family felt alone with what we were faced with.

Trinity took us in once more, and supported us all for many years. Trinity felt like a second home – it was a place where we were happy; where mum could stay overnight knowing she was safe, and knowing we could visit any time of the day.

Mum passed away because of the pressures of her condition surrounded by everyone who loved her. I was 15 years old.

But Trinity’s care didn’t stop the day mum died. It continues to this day, six years later. Every person we came into contact with, both at Brian House and Trinity, put their hearts into their work which leaves a lasting impression on everyone who walks through their doors. Those people who looked after us at our darkest time have become such a big part of my life and who I am today.