Louise Smith; Head: Resources Development, Helderberg Hospice

Oom Tommy Tandyhas been a patient with Helderberg Hospice for many years.

He enjoys a warm, authentic connection with Sister Alice, his Professional Palliative Nursing Sister, and Heidi Hendricks, his Professional Palliative Care Social Worker.

Recently, in pain and experiencing unpleasant side effects from the medication he was on, Oom Tommy was admitted to Helderberg Hospice 24-Hour Transitional Care facility, where he would spend two weeks in the comforting care of our specialist palliative team.

In his own words, he was “wonderfully welcomed and found the staff friendly and caring”.

He loved his stay and went home in good spirits, enthusiastic, feeling well, and looking forward to spending time with the little ones in the household, who adore him.

When his neighbours heard that he was going into Hospice for two weeks, they told him in ominous tones that this was a one-way journey that he wouldn’t come back from.

Oom Tommy was delighted to tell them in person two weeks later, that he had a “return” ticket, and in fact he would love to spend more time at Hospice, so wonderful was his experience.

During the visit with Oom Tommy over the weekend, he spoke of his dearest wish – to see the ocean again. He had last been to the beach over 30 years ago.

Helderberg Hospice responded with their trademark compassion, arranging a trip to Macassar Beach where he spent some time sitting on a bench, gazing out at the ocean watching the swell of the waves as they formed and then crashed upon the shore.

It was heart-warming to see his emotions and just how much this meant to him.

His return home from hospice is not just a testament to his enduring spirit but a reflection of the remarkable support he receives from those at Helderberg Hospice.

It is an honour, the team says, to spend time with this “lovely, optimistic gentleman”.