Ashgate hospice in Derbyshire welcomed an unusual visit from twin calves last Friday afternoon (September 20) bringing joy to the patients receiving end of life and palliative care
Bonnie and Bella, the two four-week-old Brown Swiss calves, were brought to the hospice by their owner, local farmer Rob Pearson and his partner, Emma Brookbank, of Newgate farm in Barlow, where they were warmly received by residents.
Patients and their families from the hospice’s Inpatient Unit (IPU) and Day Services enjoyed petting the visitors, finding great solace from their presence.
Carol Harland, a patient at Ashgate with bowel cancer, was enjoying a family visit from her daughters, Anna and Louise, her grandaughter Emma and great-grandchildren, Minnie, Lulu and Ziggy when she met the calves.
The 75-year-old Bakewell native had only been at the hospice’s IPU for two days prior to the surprise arrival from the calves:
“The cows have been gorgeous. I have had a lovely day. Plus I had a lovely bath, reflexology and did some crafts. There is something all the time for you to do and everything is tailored to you,” Harland said.
Her daughter, Anna Crease, added: “Being at the hospice has really lifted mum up.”
Voluntary work at the hospice
Pearson’s mum, Mona Pearson and niece, Louise Pearson, received palliative care at the hospice, which inspired the farmer to do something to give back to the care facility for the treatment his family members received at the end of their lives
“Bonnie and Bella are pedigree Brown Swiss cattle; they were born on the farm and are going to be used for milk production.
“They’re really nice cattle to deal with and they’d just been born when Ali from the hospice got in touch to ask if we had any farm animals for a visit, so it made sense to bring them.
“I lost my mum in 2012, and the hospice were very good with caring for her; plus you never know if you’ll need the care yourself one day.
“It’s only down the road and I’m more than happy to do my bit to support a charity. You only have to see the look on the patients faces when we bring in the animals – that makes the whole thing worth it,” Pearson said.
The long time supporter of the hospice also voluntarily mows the lawns on the grounds of the hospice as an additional token of gratitude.
Responding to the success of the visit, Ward Manager at Ashgate Hospice, Karen Walker said: “We’re so grateful that Rob and Emma continue to visit us with their lovely farm animals.
“At Ashgate Hospice, we’re always doing what we can to make being at the hospice as special as it can be for our patients and their families, so to be able to put a smile on people’s faces means so much.
“Animals play a crucial role in providing comfort and emotional support. They help reduce feelings of anxiety, and stress – not only for patients but for staff too. Having animals around helps create a calming atmosphere, which is so important for everyone’s wellbeing,” she added.
