Described as a lovely man and a cherished husband, Lawrence Guppy received support from City Hospice following a diagnosis of oesophageal cancer, with the charity providing specialist palliative care until he passed away in 2019.
A tech wizard, Lawrence Guppy had a long career working for both the health and ambulance services. His interest in technology and digital advances led him to specialise in IT systems for the ambulance service in the latter stages of his career.
Outside of work, Lawrence enjoyed spending time with his family at home and on holiday, walking his dogs and playing the guitar.
After feeling that something was not quite right, Lawrence made an appointment with his doctor, who then referred him for an endoscopy. Sadly, he was diagnosed with oesophageal cancer.
His wife Wendy said: “Despite the diagnosis, Lawrence remained positive and was open to all types of treatment including chemotherapy. During his time at Velindre, we were introduced to City Hospice who not only provided amazing care for Lawrence towards the end of his life but also supported and guided me through his illness.
“They were amazing; always there whenever we needed them. Lawrence struck up an excellent relationship with his Clinical Nurse Specialist Kath, who was so nice and caring. My mum has unfortunately recently been diagnosed with terminal cancer and Kath is now her dedicated nurse. I know she will provide the same wonderful care and compassion for my mum as she did for Lawrence.”
Following Lawrence’s death, City Hospice continued to support Wendy with specialist bereavement counselling and services.
Wendy said: “I thought I would be ok, but losing Lawrence was the hardest thing I have ever had to deal with in my life. The saying ‘you don’t realise what you have got until it’s gone’ is true; part of me is missing since Lawrence passed away.
“It’s still difficult but City Hospice’s bereavement counselling gives me strength and I can’t talk highly enough about them. I had probably heard of the hospice prior to Lawrence, and my mum, entering their care but I truly hadn’t realised the extent of their work.
“Now, I regularly share information about the hospice online to spread the word about their incredible work to my wider circle of family and friends.”
To say thank you, Wendy has since taken part in a number of City Hospice’s fundraising events including Forever Flowers, Light Up A Life and the Sparkle Walk, as well as Wag This Way with her cocker spaniel Betsy.
A donation made during the Light Up A Life campaign will make a world of difference to a family facing terminal illness in the community. To donate, visit http://www.cityhospice.org.uk/star-in-the-sky/ or call 02920 524 150.
