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Margaret's vision realised

9/ 5/2008

IN MAY 1983 the biggest appeal ever made in Rochdale was launched – the Hospice for Rochdale Appeal.

The aim was to raise enough money to build a hospice and the appeal was launched in the Observer.

A month later, £1,744 had been raised and Margaret Geoghegan’s vision of specialised provision for the terminally ill was on its way to becoming a reality.

Money flooded in from children, churches, pubs, clubs, firms and organisations, and support groups were set up with the specific aim of raising money for the hospice in areas such as Castleton, Balderstone, Littleborough and Whitworth.

With regular updates on the progress of the appeal in the Observer, there was also a ‘roll of honour’ acknowledging those who made donations.

Mrs Geoghegan, who was awarded an MBE for her work, said: "The kindness shown by Rochdale people has been immense and a lot of credit must go to the Observer and its readers."

When Springhill Hospice, in Broad Lane – chosen from a possible 27 sites – was officially opened by Princess Anne it had two patients and 25 staff.

Today there are 16 patients, plus the same number of day care patients, and the £400,000 building which opened almost 20 years ago would cost around £5M to provide today.

Over the years there has been a range of improvements including an extension, the provision of a day care centre and an education centre.

The grounds are immaculately maintained and there is also a beautiful sensory garden.

Soon, the results of a £500,000 programme of improvements will be unveiled – courtesy of a grant from the Department of Health and additional funding from the Wolfson Foundation – which includes the refurbishment of single patient rooms and new toilets, bathrooms, reception, lounge and dining areas, plus improved decor and disabled access throughout.

When the appeal to build the hospice was launched in 1983, a ward sister friend of Mrs Geoghegan started the ball rolling with a £5 donation.

Today, £5 equates to a minute of patient care in the hospice. If everyone gave a similar donation, think how much could be raised.

The vision continues. Can you spare a minute?