Actor James Nesbitt praised the work of Marie Curie in caring for terminally ill people as being “absolutely amazing” after he visited its Belfast hospice for the first time recently.
The popular Cold Feet actor visited on the invitation of his friend, Dr Catherine Doherty, who works there and spent nearly two hours chatting with patients, family members and staff.
He spent time with doctors, nurses, Rehab team members, Occupational Therapists, the hospice’s chef and groundsmen, getting to know their roles at the hospice and their long service with Marie Curie.
James, who recently appeared on screen in the second series of Bloodlands, admitted that his experience of the hospice was different to what he initially had thought.
He said: “I suppose I was a little reticent before coming into the Marie Curie hospice but I was blown away by the place, the sheer positivity and warmth of it all and all the staff. It was absolutely amazing. The emphasis is on living well and it was completely different to what I thought it was.
“The patients told me that their time in the hospice was like being in a ‘home from home’ and I could feel that. It’s a standard of care that I wish everyone could have. It was lovely to see one woman have her little dog in her room to visit her along with her husband and to hear how family parties and events are organised by the staff for the patients.
“I understand that Marie Curie is celebrating its 75th anniversary year next month and I wish everyone all the best as they work to care for terminally ill people at end of life.”
Paula Heneghan, Strategic Partnerships and Services Associate Director of Marie Curie Northern Ireland, thanked James for giving his time to bring some cheer to patients and staff.
“James chatted and spent time with everyone and was very sensitive and warm with our patients who really appreciated his visit. He showed a real interest in end of life care for people and what we do at Marie Curie and it was a pleasure to have hosted him. Thanks too to Dr Doherty and the rest of the medical team for all they do for our patients.”
Marie Curie provides end of life nursing care for people at home and in hospices, helping to manage symptoms of terminal illnesses to maintain quality of life.
The charity is celebrating its 75th anniversary on July 6. In this time, Marie Curie has been there for millions of people affected by terminal illness, bereavement, and grief. Today, support is more needed than ever. To help ensure a future where everyone gets the best possible end of life care head to Mariecurie.org.uk/donate
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