Patients attending Fair Oaks Day Hospice in Walsall have been enjoying a festive week filled with music, laughter and daily surprises, proving once again that hospice care is about living life to the fullest.

Throughout the week, every patient received a present each day, with live entertainment creating a joyful atmosphere during what can be a challenging time of year.

Maureen Watts, aged 73, said: “It’s been really enjoyable, it’s something different, I get to learn and do so much here that I have never done before and the entertainment we have had has been excellent.”

The festive celebrations, arranged through the Well Wishers Charity, included a variety of entertainment including musical performances. Patients were treated to live ukulele music, performances from Ruby Doo, the Willenhall Singers and a special appearance from local singer Nicola, all helping to bring Christmas cheer to Fair Oaks.

Ron Graham, aged 74, said: “I can’t thank all the staff here enough for what they do. They have given me my life back, I look forward to coming here every week and meet all my new friends.”

As well as the entertainment, the patients sat down for a 5-course Christmas Lunch cooked fresh at the Palliative Care Centre, which included Roast Turkey and all the trimmings, Christmas pudding, mince pies, followed by a hot drink, and some after eight mints. 

After lunch, the patients had a visit from Father Christmas, who gave everyone a present again sorted by Well Wishers and they then had their photos taken. 

Mandy Gee, Fair Oaks Day Hospice, said: “Christmas can be a difficult time for many of our patients, which is why creating moments of joy is so important. Seeing people smiling, singing along and enjoying themselves together is really nice to see. 

“I want to say a huge thank you to Well Wishers, as without them this week wouldn’t have happened.” 

Georgie Westley, Fundraising Manager for Well Wishers said: “It’s been a pleasure to once again pull together the entertainment for Fair Oaks Day Hospice, but we must say special thanks to all the people who gave up their time to come along and entertain, without them this wouldn’t be possible. 

“The gifts donated through the charity are just one of the many ways Well Wishers enhances the patient’s experience when in our care or using our services.”