Tracey's Story
As told by Tracey.
I first heard of a ‘celebration of life’ a few years ago – a living wake held by the person who is dying so they can see their family and friends and celebrate life together. After being told my cancer was terminal, I knew I wanted to hold my very own celebration and I planned a big garden party with pop-up food tents, music, and an ice cream bike.
However, a couple of weeks ago I became really poorly and needed to be admitted into Sobell House to help with my pain and symptoms – we weren’t even sure if I was going to pull through when I was first admitted.
Because I was so ill, the staff kept suggesting I throw my party here instead. I was reluctant at first because I felt so determined to have the party I’d originally planned. After the staff showed me the Living Well room and I knew it was a lovely space I felt better about compromising – and in hindsight it was much easier! The room was also nice and private, which was important to me so we didn’t disrupt other residents on the ward.
We ordered loads of sandwiches and cream teas from the shop along with plenty of fizz and about 60 people came from all over the country. My amazing friend did all the decorations, and it was beautiful weather so guests could spill out into the gardens.
Normally if you go to a wake, it’s a really sad occasion, but this was a celebration of life, and it meant so much to me that I could be a part of it. There was such a great atmosphere and everyone was happy which is what it was all about. I did come back to my room halfway through and have a little cry because it was emotional and overwhelming, but in the best possible way.
Pictured: Cream teas
Pictured: Guests chatting
Pictured: A cheers to Tracey
The party was supposed to end at 7pm but at 9pm people were still milling about chatting. Guests left the party with jars of jam and a bottle each as party favours, and my friend made some bookmarks with my top reading recommendations on.
I have plenty of photos from the day and every time I look at them it brings a smile to my face. Since the party, lots of people have said to me that they’d met other guests for the first time or managed to catch up with distant friends or family – the connections that were made is so special and will hopefully help them when I’m gone.
I would love to inspire someone else to organise something similar as it really was the perfect day. I’m now being discharged home and am feeling a lot better than when I arrived. I’m grateful to Sobell House for helping me throw my celebration of life so I could make precious memories with my nearest and dearest.
Thank you so much to Tracey for kindly sharing her experience.