East Cheshire Hospice has launched a podcast sharing insights into the world of end-of-life care.
The first episode of ‘Life at East Cheshire Hospice’ puts the spotlight on Rob Hasler, from Macclesfield, who has motor neurone disease.
The primary school teacher gives a fascinating and emotional account of his experiences living with the muscle weakness and wasting condition and how the charity has supported him.
The 25-minute programme is hosted by Registered Nurse Natalie Clarke, the Hospice’s Practice Education Facilitator.
It was her idea to launch the quarterly podcast which can be found on Spotify, Apple Podcasts app and Amazon Music.
The recording was produced by volunteer Sharon Sephton and fellow broadcasters Steve and Phil Brookes.
Senior physio Alice Waterhouse, lead support for the Hospice’s MND group, joins Rob as a guest for the opening episode.
Podcast guest Rob Hasler with Alice Waterhouse (left) and Natalie Clarke from East Cheshire Hospice.
Natalie said: “I enjoy listening to podcasts about health care and thought why don’t we create our own? Sharon and her colleagues kindly helped bring the vision to life.
“The podcast aims to educate people about end-of-life care and break down barriers and misconceptions by holding meaningful conversations about how the Hospice can help.”
“Rob was an amazing guest and honest about his journey.
“He spoke from a professional level about his school and pupils, from a personal level about sharing his condition with his sons, and how the Hospice services have helped.
Rob (45) attends monthly MND wellbeing days, where patients receive complementary therapies and advice including diet, speech and legal matters.
Rob said: “Initially, I was nervous about visiting the Hospice, but it’s such a beautiful, welcoming place and I look forward to coming here.
“I have massage, Reiki and art therapy, though the paint brushes don’t see much use as I talk so much.
“There’s a lot I can access. The Hospice is there if I’m struggling with something and need advice. It’s invaluable.
“I’m affected physically by my condition. I can just about move my right hand and that’s about it.
“It has affected my speech which can get slurred during the day. The illness has affected me massively day-to-day. Mentally, though, I’m still the same person and am still positive.
“I have fun and focus more on what I’m still able to do. There are so many unknowns around me now. Every day is a learning day.”
A bonus episode, called Writing for Wellbeing, is published on June 9 with the next quarterly podcast scheduled for September.