Miracle recovery Mary thanks Red Cross for care and support

After she was deemed terminally ill, pensioner Mary Davies was really grateful for the Red Cross’ reassuring support and care at home – but then she surprised everybody by getting well!

Mary, an 83-year-old grandmother from Carmarthenshire, had emergency surgery to remove a cancerous tumour from her bowel last May.

The prognosis didn’t look good, so hospital staff referred her to the Red Cross’ continuing care service, which supports people in their own homes towards the end of their lives.

Once Mary was back home, bed-bound and seriously ill, she was visited by Red Cross carers up to three times a day. They provided intimate personal care and – crucially – helped her husband and family members come to terms with what was happening.

The Red Cross’ support became particularly important during the recent bad weather, when Mary and Dilwyn’s isolated village was completely cut off by the snow. Red Cross staff used one of their emergency response vehicles to get through and to make sure the couple were okay.

For Mary, all this help made a huge difference during an incredibly difficult time. She said later: “It was very important and meant such a lot to us.” Her husband Dilwyn agreed, adding: “They have been so caring.”

Gradually, and to the delight of everyone involved, Mary’s condition started to improve. A recent scan revealed the surgery had been a complete success and Mary is now cancer-free.

Lisa Davies, Red Cross team leader, was one of Mary’s carers throughout the traumatic period. She said: “It’s been great working with such a lovely couple. They’ve really appreciated our help and for her to get such good news is wonderful.”

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