THE OVERTONES, a multi-platinum-selling band, found time during their nationwide tour to perform an impromptu gig for patients and staff at the Marie Curie Hospice in Marsh Lane, Solihull
The four-member vocal harmony group, dropped into the hospice on December 3 to serenade patients with timeless classics including Moon River, White Christmas and My Girl. Hospice staff joined patients and families from the in-patient and day therapy unit to enjoy swaying to the band’s soulful melodies.
The group also spent time speaking to individual patients asking them how they were feeling and what they had planned for Christmas, whilst taking spontaneous special requests.
Terry Hughes, who has been using the hospice day service said: “It was a wonderful experience that I wished would never end. It made me feel normal again”
Mark Franks, who sings middle harmonies in the group, said: “We wanted to bring some festive cheer to all the inspiring patients at the wonderful hospice. There’s an amazing energy at the hospice that you feel as soon as you walk through the door, which is both unexpected and uplifting.
“The difference Marie Curie makes to peoples’ lives is truly immeasurable. We have a lot to thank this amazing charity for. Not only the money they raise for vital care and research but the tireless efforts of the people that work there and their unwavering dedication.”
At the hospice, patients achieve the best possible quality of life, whether through pain management, emotional support, and even light-hearted entertainment.
Dr. Sarah Wells, Medical Director at the Marie Curie Hospice, West Midlands, said: “We work hard day and night to ensure our patients are cared for, and all their needs are met. Having uplifting live music at the hospice adds to the level of person-centred care that we offer at the hospice. It was a welcomed performance for patients and staff a like.”
The charity has recently launched its biggest ever campaign to encourage people to talk about and plan for the end of life. Reluctance to think or talk about dying and death means many of us feel deeply unprepared and distressed when facing the end of life, either for ourselves or our loved ones.
