Omer, Hande and Janet’s Compassionate Neighbours story
Heart of Kent Hospice’s Compassionate Neighbours Project was launched in January 2020 to tackle social isolation and loneliness for those living with a life-limiting illness or frailty in Maidstone, Tonbridge and Malling and surrounding towns and villages.
One of our latest Compassionate Neighbours success stories is that of Omer, Hande and Janet match. Here is what Hande and Janet think of their experience so far:
Everything started two years ago when I met Sue Shaw who introduced me to Heart of Kent Hospice and the Compassionate Neighbours project. I wanted to improve my English, socialize, learn about the culture of my new country and meet people. I started to attend the Compassionate Neighbours coffee morning meetings and when I shared my excitement with Omer, we both decided to attend the Compassionate Neighbours training together.
We met Janet at the coffee mornings and we have been meeting for about a year now. Sometimes at our homes, sometimes in a park and sometimes in a cafe. She is a truly amazing person. With her life experience, perspective, knowledge and skills – she sets an example for us. When she learned that I was interested in cross-stitching, she shared her own models with me. We talk about our families to each other; for example, Janet has three sons and we have two. There is so much we can learn from her.
About three months after my husband Brian passed away, I started going to the Compassionate Neighbours meet ups, which is where I met Omer and Hande who are such a delightful young couple.
Right from the start there was a connection and as time went by this has become more pronounced. We talk about many things. Last November, my eldest Sister was diagnosed with terminal cancer and passed away in July. Omer and Hande have given me tremendous support. I have been taken out for coffee lots of times and memorable outings. We had a lovely afternoon at Teston Bridge Country Park and another at Mote Park. Recently we all went down to Allington Locks.
It is wonderful how our relationship has spanned the generation gap. I have shared a lovely Turkish meal at their home with their two sons. Last month it was my birthday and Omer, Hande, and their two sons sent me a video of them singing Happy Birthday, I was really touched.
I am so glad that I am a part of the Compassionate Neighbours project. The support I have received has been immeasurable.
Could you be a Compassionate Neighbour?
To meet the needs within the community, so that no one nearing the end of their life through age or illness feels lonely, Heart of Kent Hospice is aiming to recruit and train at least six new volunteers every month to provide companionship, emotional support and a listening ear. Could you give just 1 - 2 hours a week to offer friendship and support to a person in your local community affected by terminal illness or frailty and experiencing loneliness or social isolation?
Compassionate Neighbours