A Clinical Support Worker, who became a patient at the Walsall hospice she was based at after being diagnosed with cancer, has died, prompting tributes from colleagues and family who have praised her positivity.
Katryna ‘Kat’ Knox, passed away on 4 July 2025. She had Katryna had worked at Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust for 10 years, working initially on Ward 11 at Walsall Manor Hospital before moving to Goscote Hospice at Walsall Palliative Care Centre three years ago.
She was diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer five months ago and battled her illness before becoming an inpatient at the hospice where she worked.
The much-loved staff member from Shelfield leaves behind her husband Wayne, three children and five grandchildren, at the age of 52.
Her daughter Gabby and daughter-in-law Danielle also work for the Trust in clinical roles.
Deb Jones, Ward Manager at Goscote Hospice, said: “Kat came to work at Goscote Hospice in what she described as ‘her dream job’. She was immediately welcomed into the team and was recognised for her compassionate approach.
“Her sense of humour was contagious, making it a pleasure to work alongside her.
“Kat was not afraid to speak the truth and always advocated for her patients. She was a real asset to the hospice team and has made a tangible difference to the many patients she has cared for.
“It has been an immense privilege as a team to be able to care for her in her final weeks and she will be deeply missed by us all.’’
Daughter-in-law Danielle said: “Family was her priority. She spent her whole life caring for us, and for others.
“We’ll miss her dry sense of humour, and her positivity. Even if her final weeks leading up to her death, she was upbeat and never complained. She just kept pushing on.”
A week before her death, Kat was able to go back home for one final time and be with her loved ones for a celebration of her life.
Her family have also highlighted the “amazing care” she received from colleagues.
“The staff fulfilled her dying wishes and have been so courageous looking after one of their own colleagues”, said Danielle.
“The hospice staff have been nothing but incredible, kind, caring and compassionate. They all deserve a medal. A special shout to Naz, her metastatic breast specialist Nurse, whose support has been phenomenal.”