Twin sisters from Llanrhian, North Pembrokeshire, Sally Phillips and Suzanne Meredith-Barrett, have marked 30 years since the passing of their beloved mum, Elvira Phillips, by continuing to support the Paul Sartori Foundation, the charity that provided her with specialist hospice at home care.
Elvira, a much-loved figure in Llanrhian and a big character on Heol Rhian, sadly died in 1995 at the young age of 51 after a long and brave battle with breast cancer. In her final days, she was cared for by the Paul Sartori hospice at home nursing team. Sally and Suzanne say they have never forgotten the invaluable support the nurses gave, not only to their mum but also to them as a family, during such a time of great sadness and loss.
To this day, the sisters remain deeply grateful for the compassion and kindness shown to them. Recently, they channelled that gratitude into fundraising at their local church in Llanrhian, where their mother is laid to rest. Together with the congregation, they organised a heartfelt “Sing for Sartori” Sunday Service, led by The Reverend Canon Michael Rowlands, assisted by Reverend Belinda Roberts and Reverend Rhian Prime, with music provided by Mrs Sue Hood.
The service, held on a sunny afternoon by the sea, brought the community together in fine song and fond remembrance, raising a phenomenal £375.50 for the Foundation.
For Sally and Suzanne, the event was about far more than fundraising; it was a way to celebrate their beloved Mum Elvira’s life, to remember the vibrant presence she had within their home and the community, and to honour the nurses who helped them through one of the hardest times imaginable. Their story reflects the lasting impact that hospice at home care can have on families, providing not only expert medical support but also emotional comfort and dignity at the end of life.
Pictured: Sue Hood, organist at Llanrhian Church, Sally Phillips, Suzanne Meredith-Barker, and Nia Cotton of The Paul Sartori Foundation outside Llanrhian Church.