Dance show raises funds for palliative care service that supported family through loss
A Northumbrian family used a community dance show to raise funds for the service which supported them through the most difficult time of their lives.
It is part of their meaningful way to give back to Northumbria Healthcare’s palliative care service by collecting donations for the trust’s Bright Northumbria Healthcare Charity.
Emma and Philip Simm’s daughter Esme has performed with Michelle School of Dance for over 10 years. The school holds an annual dance show, with all proceeds donated to charity.
When Principal dance teacher Michelle Hankinson invited charity nominations for this year’s show, the family put forward Bright Charity. After hearing their story Michelle chose it as this year’s beneficiary and together, they raised over £1,700.
In September 2021, Philip was admitted to hospital after feeling unwell for several weeks. He was diagnosed with stage 4 oesophageal cancer, and from that moment, the palliative care team at the Northumbria Specialist Emergency Care Hospital (NSECH) became an essential part of his and his family’s lives.
By the time the team became involved, Philip was extremely unwell, in significant pain, and unable to eat or drink. The palliative care team focused not only on managing his symptoms, but also on bringing comfort in small but powerful ways. Simple gestures like bringing iced lollies helped brighten moments that were otherwise incredibly hard.
The support extended beyond Philip. With strict Covid restrictions still in place, his wife spent much of the time at the hospital alone with him. The team provided emotional support, a listening ear, and a safe space to express fears and feelings that felt impossible to share elsewhere. They also helped guide difficult conversations with the couple’s children.
One particularly special moment came ahead of their son Finlay’s birthday. Unsure whether Philip would live to see it, a member of the team arranged a cake and candles so the family could celebrate together early – a memory that remains deeply cherished.
Philip passed away on 9 October 2021. His final days, though heartbreakingly short, were made more peaceful by the compassion, care and thoughtfulness of the team.
“We could never thank them enough for what they did for Philip and for us as a family,” Emma said. “All the little things they do make such a huge difference at the worst time in people’s lives.”
Rob Graham, Head of Bright Charity, said: “It means so much to see our community come together to support palliative care services through Bright Charity. This wonderful fundraiser, inspired by such a personal story, will help ensure that patients and families across the trust receive the care, kindness and support they deserve at the most challenging moments.”
The family said they were “so pleased and proud” to be able to support the palliative care team once again, helping ensure they can continue to provide the same compassionate care to other families facing unimaginable circumstances.
