Hospiscare helps plan 50th birthday party for patient

Claire Mincher from Colyford was admitted to Hospiscare’s ward in Exeter shortly before her 50th birthday. Her hopes of raising a glass on a Barbados beach for her birthday were dashed – but the hospice staff, along with Claire’s friends, were determined she would celebrate in style.

Hospiscare’s supportive care team, community fundraisers and catering staff planned a fully catered party for Claire on Saturday 12 April. 

Claire explains, “The party was going to take place on the hospice ward, but we were limited to 20 people. My friends and the hospice staff began investigating other venues and we were all set to go ahead with a local pub, when my friend got a call back from Winslade Manor – they had a cancellation and were happy to provide the room for free.

“It’s like something out of ‘The Only Way is Essex’ – that’s the only way I can describe it. It’s just stunning. I was gobsmacked that this venue had come along at the right time. It’s all worked out better than I honestly could have imagined in my dreams.

Talking before the party, Claire added, “I’ve booked a DJ to play dance classics, and drum and bass because my children, who are 14 and 17, love drum and bass. I can just see all the adults dancing and my kids cringing!” 

As it was so important to Claire to capture memories from the day, the hospice staff organised a photo booth and applied for funding from a charitable trust to cover some of the costs. 

East Devon Area Fundraiser, Toni Hiscocks, appealed to the community via social media, writing “Hospiscare is there when it matters most – providing care, comfort and compassion during life's most difficult moments.  

“Right now, we are supporting a loving mum who is staying at the hospice. This incredible lady will shortly be celebrating her 50th birthday whilst staying here at our specialist ward.

“Our supportive care team are helping to plan and organise a very special party with her nearest and dearest. To make the day even more memorable, we'd love to source a photo booth so she, her family, and friends can capture joyful moments together.” 

When the photo booth company cancelled on the day of the party, Hospiscare was there once again as Occupational Therapist, Heather Parsons, stepped into the role of photographer. 

After the party, Claire said, “I had the most wonderful time. I sat at a table with a glass of fizz and a cheesecake from my favourite bakery while a procession of guests wished me happy birthday. I didn’t want to use a wheelchair, and I even managed a dance at the end to my favourite song, ‘Lola’s Theme’ by The Shapeshifters.

“I invited 50 people but more came than I expected. There were people there that I hadn’t seen in 10 years! There was a lot of crying, but I had a fantastic time.

“I made it clear on the invitations that I didn’t want presents; I just asked for donations to Hospiscare. I’m well enough to go home next week and that’s all thanks to them. They’re all angels.

“I’m really going to miss everyone here on the ward. Everybody has been amazing. I’ve never met a nicer bunch of people. They come for a chat, and they listen; they always take the time. I’m really sad to be leaving, even though I’m happy to go home. I know I’ll want to come back. It’s just wonderful here – a really special place.”