Patient and family stories

As told by Lis’ daughter, Lisa.

My Mum, Lis, lit up every room she walked into. She was one of the bubbliest, happiest people you could ever meet. Always smiling, always positive, always thinking of someone else before herself. She had an incredible warmth about her that made people feel safe, supported and cared for. She was everything to me, my younger brother Nick, and my Dad.

As told by Stephen’s wife, Linda.

Stephen, known to everyone around him as ‘Bubba’, was diagnosed with a grade four brain tumour in June 2024, and life changed in an instant. Following brain surgery and the challenges of adjusting to life at home, he was introduced to the Living Well service at Sobell House.

As told by Mark’s daughter, Hayley.

My Dad, Mark Kirby, was in Sobell House from 21st to 25th February 2026. It was his wish to spend the end of his life there, and to be able to have an ice lolly in the garden or conservatory with his older grandchildren, as well as share precious cuddles with his newborn granddaughter.

As told by Christine’s husband, Robert.

People often ask how long Christine and I were married, or how we met, and I always smile because the truth is we knew from the very first night that we belonged together.

As told by Anna’s daughter, Deirdre.

My Mum, Anna Connor, grew up in Northern Ireland and came to England in the 1940s, where she met my father, who was serving in the RAF and stationed in North Yorkshire. They married in Harrogate on 31 December 1943. My brother was born in December 1944 and I was born in May 1947.

As told by Dave’s son, Pete.

Our Dad, Dave Ashman, had a wonderful sense of humour. Very sharp and witty, he made everyone feel comfortable in his presence. He was a devoted husband and family man. His hobbies included fishing (although most of the time he paid to watch the scenery!), music, reading and football. Manchester United and Oxford United F.C. were his teams. A larger-than-life character who would find a laugh in anything.