Kelly O’Hara was referred to Foyle Hospice by her GP following a recommendation from the Respiratory Team.

“I was told about Day Therapy which would offer me the opportunity to get to know people and take part in activities that I wasn’t really able to do at home,” she explained.

Kelly was initially told she had between three and six months to live in the worst-case scenario, or 12 to 18 months at best.

“That was seven months ago, and I think I’m doing rather well,” she continued. “I really believe Foyle Hospice has helped me with that.”

Day Therapy at Foyle Hospice supports people living with cancer and life-limiting illnesses by offering specialist care in a welcoming environment. Alongside expert clinical support, patients can access complementary therapies, wellbeing activities, social interaction and emotional support, helping them maintain independence, confidence and quality of life.

Since attending Day Therapy, Kelly says her life has changed dramatically.

“I love getting out of the house, meeting people and just living really,” she said. “We’re always doing different things, and the therapies are brilliant. The head massage and reflexology are amazing, and even simple things like getting your hair or nails done really lift your spirits and make you feel good about yourself.”

Before coming to Foyle Hospice, Kelly admits she was apprehensive and had a very different perception of what hospice care meant.

“Any association I had with Foyle Hospice was completely wrong,” she said. “I thought it meant something very different, but it’s actually about showing you that life is there to be lived. You’re not shut away or isolated. Everything here is centred around you and what you need.”

Additionally, Kelly feels that having a routine has become one of the most important parts of her week.

“I love Tuesdays and Wednesdays because I have somewhere to go,” she said. “I get up, get dressed and have a purpose. You’re not sitting in your chair watching television all day. You’re talking to people, trying new things and it reminds you that you’re still living.”

Kelly believes Day Therapy has had a remarkable impact on both her physical and emotional wellbeing.

“Before I came here, I would have spent most of the day in my pyjamas. I wasn’t interacting with many people and I was feeling very low,” she said. “Now I’m more confident, more positive and much more outgoing. I’m not afraid to leave the house anymore.”

She added: “I relax much more easily now, especially after coming to Day Therapy, and I sleep better too. I get so much from being here.”

Receiving a diagnosis of end-stage COPD was life-changing, but Kelly says Foyle Hospice has helped her focus on living well rather than simply living with illness.

“I honestly don’t think I could have managed without Foyle Hospice,” she said. “I think I would have gone into a deep depression. Everything felt like doom and gloom before, whereas now it feels like there’s a little bit of sunshine.”

Rather than allowing her illness to define her, Kelly says Day Therapy has helped her regain control of her life.

“I don’t hide under my illness anymore,” she said. “Yes, I have COPD and it’s part of my life, but I don’t let it get on top of me. Without Foyle Hospice, I think my illness would have controlled me. Instead, they’ve shown me that life is still there to be enjoyed.”