A Bolton woman living with a life-limiting illness has praised Bolton Hospice’s Wellbeing Hub, describing it as an “absolute safe haven” that has helped her cope with some of the most difficult moments of her life
Mel first started attending the hub around two years ago after her doctor suggested she give it a try
Although she was initially unsure, encouragement from her husband Doug persuaded her to take the first step through the doors
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Now attending creative therapy sessions twice a week, Mel says the support she receives has transformed her life
The wellbeing hub provides support, advice and specialist management for people living with life-limiting illnesses and their carers, and focuses on wellbeing and rehabilitation
Talking about her experience, Mel said: “I laugh, I cry and I talk
“Although I’ve got a good relationship with my family, it can be hard to speak to them about things
“I want to be a strong mum for them.”
The hub has taken on even greater importance since Mel lost her husband suddenly in late 2025
“Doug always held my hand and at the time I always wanted my own space, but now I really miss that
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“Things like sensory therapy fill that gap for me
“Even a hug means so much
“We underestimate the impact human touch can have.”
As well as the hub acting as a personal outlet, Mel also says it has improved the life and wellbeing of much of her family
“It has been good for my family too
“I’m not sad when I come home, I’ve got lots to speak to them about and they have more time to themselves as well.”
Mel refers to her visits as her “me time”, providing a chance to focus on herself away from the responsibilities of everyday life
“For a few hours I’m not focused on being someone’s mum, wife or friend
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“I’m just me
“The minute I walk through those doors everyone makes a fuss of me. It’s nice to feel special.”
During her first few visits, another patient helped Mel settle into the group and, since then, she says she has gained “a whole family” through the friendships formed at the hub
“I’ve got new friends that I get to see each week and we’ve all got common ground with being unwell, though I don’t actually think about my illness while I’m here.”
Members regularly work together on creative projects, including making items to sell and raise money for the hospice, and Mel says the friendships built at the hub have helped everyone support one another through difficult times
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Her message to others living with life-limiting illnesses is simple
“I tell absolutely everyone about it
“Put me on the town hall steps and I’ll tell everyone: ‘If you’ve got a life-limiting illness get your backside down here, I don’t know how you couldn’t like it!’.”
