I had known Cicely well since we both trained at Saint Thomas’ Hospital.  She invited me to join the team of doctors at St Christopher’s where I worked from 1972 – 1988. During that time I visited France, Belgium, Switzerland and French Canada to give lectures and seminars on Palliative medicine.

At the time I was the only doctor who spoke French.  But since those early days other doctors and nurses who speak French have joined the staff at the hospice  and with Avril Jackson, International Information Manager, continue to organise “French Days” at St Christopher’s and maintain contacts with those involved in hospice and palliative care work on the continent.

This lamp brightens my room in a Residential Care Home. It is on a corner of the desk where it lights up precious photos of family and friends.