Marjorie's Hospice Story
Rotherham Hospice Patient Stories
When Marjorie shares her hospice story, it begins with love — and ends with giving something back.
Her son, James, spent his final days at Rotherham Hospice. “From the moment we arrived, the care was full of empathy,” she says. “James was in the Lavender Room. We brought his dog in, sat outside in the garden, and it felt peaceful. I stayed overnight. His friends came to visit. It was a beautiful passing.”
That experience shaped everything Marjorie has done since. Today, she supports Sunbeams — Rotherham Hospice’s legacy initiative that honours loved ones through personal stories and symbolic gestures of remembrance.
Giving back through Sunbeams
She also invites children supported by the hospice to visit her farm. “I’ve spent years teaching disabled children and adults. I’ve seen how powerful horses can be — the way they connect with people, build confidence, and bring joy,” she says. “That’s what the hospice does too. It’s the same feeling when you walk through the doors.”
Recently, hospice families spent the day at her farm. “The children were grooming Rocky, our little Shetland pony. They were running around doing hobby horse racing — laughing, free, just being kids,” she smiles. “That’s what it’s all about. Their loved ones are still with them. They’re making new memories. And that’s healing.”
For Marjorie, this isn’t just a story of loss — it’s a story of life.
“I can’t thank the hospice enough for how they cared for James. Now I want to give back. This is my way.”
