James’s Story – Finding Strength, Friendship, and Hope at St Vincent’s Hospice

As part of Hospice Care Week 2025 (6th–12th October), St Vincent’s Hospice is proud to share the story of James, who was diagnosed with metastatic prostate cancer and referred to the hospice for support.

What James discovered was more than expert care-he found strength, friendship, and hope.

At first, community nurses visited James at home, offering comfort and reassurance. Later, he began attending day services, where he found laughter, companionship, and a place he belonged.

“It’s like another big family,” James says.Over time, the hospice supported James and his partner in many ways: from managing symptoms and providing respite, to navigating housing and financial challenges.

With the help of the hospice social worker and local partners, James has now moved into a new accessible home-something he says “will change my life.”
“I’d never have got to where I am without the hospice support,” James shares.

“They’ve helped me in ways I never imagined-not just for me, but for my partner too. They’ve given me strength, friendship, and hope when I needed it most.”

This Hospice Care Week, James’s story is the first of many being shared by St Vincent’s Hospice to highlight the theme: “Hospice Care is more than we think.”