John’s Feather for Denise
John is dedicating a feather in memory of his wife, Denise — a kind, strong and loving woman who meant the world to her family. For John, the feather is a symbol of the memories they shared and the care they received when they needed it most. Now an ambassador for Rotherham Hospice, John continues to honour Denise by helping others understand what hospice care really means.
“She was special in so many ways.”
Denise was a great daughter, a great sister, a great mother, and a great wife. She was kind, full of love, and a fighter right to the very end.
One of my favourite memories is of us in my granddad’s caravan at Linton, with our daughter Jessica. Just the three of us, together. That’s what Denise was about. Family, laughter, love.
When she became ill, Rotherham Hospice was there for all of us, not just for Denise. They gave us something we’ll never forget. They took the pressure off, so we could spend time as a family. We weren’t rushing around trying to manage everything. We were just able to be with her.
The hospice team supported us day and night. That meant everything, especially for Jessica, who was only eight years old at the time. She needed calm. She needed to feel safe. And the hospice helped us give her that.
I’m dedicating a feather to Denise so our family never forgets. It’s a simple way to keep her memory alive. The grounds at Wentworth Woodhouse are beautiful and it’s the perfect place for a beautiful person to be remembered. That feather will always remind us of her. It will always feel like she’s close.
What would I say to anyone thinking of donating to the Feather Appeal? Do it. It’s a tribute that lasts. It’s something you can hold onto, especially on the hard days. It’s a way of remembering everything you loved about someone, and knowing they’ll always be with you.
This tribute is for all the memories and all the love we had. Denise gave us so much. This is one way we give back.
I’m proud to now be an ambassador for Rotherham Hospice. When they asked me, I wasn’t sure what it meant, but I knew I had to say yes. As long as I’m alive, I’ll keep sharing what this place means to me. I’ll keep helping where I can.
Every time I come here, I see the same thing. Smiles on the faces of the staff. A warm welcome for everyone. That’s the kind of place it is. And that’s why I’ll always be proud to be part of it.
Dedicate a feather in our meadow of memories for your loved one
This summer, we invite you to dedicate a feather in memory of someone you love. As part of our Feather Appeal, hundreds of beautiful steel feathers will come together in the gardens of Wentworth Woodhouse, creating a powerful and peaceful tribute — a Meadow of Memories.
Each feather tells a story. Each one holds a wish. By dedicating a feather, you’ll honour their memory in a truly meaningful way, while helping Rotherham Hospice continue to add more life to every day for patients and families in our care.
