Dee’s Feather for Mavis
Dee is dedicating a feather in memory of her mum, Mavis — a gentle, funny and fiercely loved woman who meant the world to her family. Through her tribute, Dee is keeping Mavis’s memory alive and saying thank you to Rotherham Hospice for the care they gave when it mattered most.
“She was just Mum. And she was everything.”
My mum was a wonderful lady. I know most people say that about their mum, but she really was. She didn’t like being in the spotlight. She was quiet, gentle, and so kind to everyone she met.
She made us laugh all the time, usually without even trying. I’ll never forget the time she thought she needed a passport to go to London. That was Mum. Thoughtful, funny, and just a little bit daft in the best way. She didn’t have big ambitions. She was happiest at home, surrounded by family. But when she needed to, she could absolutely stand her ground.
In the eighties, I ran a fitness class. Mum used to help out on reception, collecting the money. When the class was full, she’d put up the ‘sold out’ sign and deal with the people desperate to get in. She never backed down, even if it was uncomfortable. She was always stronger than she looked.
When Mum became ill, we were devastated. But Rotherham Hospice made such a difference to that part of our journey. They didn’t just look after Mum. They looked after all of us. I remember one day I stepped out of the room, just to get a breath, and someone noticed I was struggling. They sat with me for 20 minutes. Just talked to me. Held my hand. I’ll never forget how safe they made me feel.
That’s what Rotherham Hospice did. They gave us time. They gave us peace. They gave Mum dignity. Without them, I don’t know how we would have coped.
We’ve since dedicated a feather in her memory. It sits in the grounds at Wentworth Woodhouse, which is such a beautiful place. Somewhere I can go and just remember her. The feather means so much to us. It’s a symbol of her presence. A reminder that she’s still with us in some way.
Mum had ten grandchildren. She’s in so many photographs. Her great-grandchildren already recognise her. That means everything. And having a place to go, where she’s honoured, helps us keep her memory alive.
I’d encourage anyone who has lost someone to dedicate a feather. It’s helped us find peace, and it brings comfort knowing she is remembered in such a meaningful way.
Rotherham Hospice gave us so much. This is how we say thank you.
She was just Mum. And to us, she was everything.
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.
