Rachel’s story
Why Rachel will be dedicating a ribbon in memory of her husband, Reg.
“Reg supported Leeds United ever since he was a teenager. He watched all the games he could, either at home or in his local pub with friends who were also Leeds supporters. He had hoped to go and watch a match with them one day.
In 2019, Reg became really poorly and needed the help of Sobell House. The minute my daughter Autumn and I stepped into the hospice, it felt like a warm, safe hug. From the amazing community nurses who felt like old friends coming into our home, to the Living Well day service that Reg enjoyed so much, Sobell House is so much more than people could ever imagine.
We want to keep supporting Sobell House so that other families can receive the warm care and support that we did – not just to Reg, but to our whole family. So, last year, we decided to dedicate a ribbon in memory of Reg.
Last year’s Rainbow of Ribbons event was lovely. It was in a peaceful setting and the tree looked pretty with the ribbons blowing in the breeze. It was a heart-warming visual reminder of our loved ones.
Rachel and Reg’s daughter Autumn with Reg’s ribbon at our 2022 display
My heart swelled with love for Reg when I saw his name on the ribbon displayed on the tree. It was yellow, a club colour for Leeds United! A happy coincidence, but one that made me feel that there was a connection.
It was lovely to sit with a coffee and cake and remember loved ones, but it also meant a lot to talk to some of the staff and volunteers who remembered us, Reg and our family’s story. That’s the thing with everyone at Sobell House; they treat everyone as people, not just patients, and they remember personal things about the families they care for. It means a lot.
To see Reg’s ribbon and spend time in peaceful surroundings reflecting and remembering him, whilst being able to raise money for the hospice and support others in his memory is so special.
Sobell House makes such a difference and I will do whatever I can to help support them. I would encourage anyone to please dedicate a ribbon to their loved one, so other families have the support and care that they need, just like we did.”