Family help equip hospicein memory of Rye father

A WELL loved Rye man’s legacy has enabled St Michael’s Hospice to fully furnish two rooms.
Paul WilliamsPaul Williams
Paul Williams

Marie Williams and daughters Amanda and Laura, presented a cheque to the hospice for £3,556.45 in memory of Paul Williams who ran Sweet William green-grocer and florist in Rye for 30 years.

Paul, who was 48 was diagnosed with pancreatic Cancer in March 2012.

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He was a real Ryer who raised money for numerous charities by running the Hastings half marathon and the local cycling ‘tour de Romney Marsh’

On Christmas Day Paul would give up his morning raising money for the Rye fire brigade dressed as Father Christmas delivering presents to the children in Rye.

Paul was a sports enthusiast who always kept himself fit and loved cycling, skiing, squash, circuit training

Wife Marie said: “Paul spent several weeks during his illness In and out of the hospice and spent his final days there. The care was exceptional and Paul even mentioned it was better than a 5 star hotel.

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“The staff went out of their way to look after not just Paul but his whole family

“Paul had such drive and determination all through out his battle and didn’t once give up the fight.”

Darran Penfold, from the hospice, said: “We are so grateful to Marie, Amanda and Laura for the donation they made in memory of Paul.

“In agreement with the family, the money will be used to completely furnish two new rooms that are currently under construction at the Hospice.

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“Firstly, we will be able to furnish, carpet and decorate our new overnight guest room with everything you would expect from a hotel.

“This will include a bed, sofa bed, TV, DVD player, drawers and full en-suite facilities which can be used by our patients’ loved ones so they can stay overnight and be nearby when needed most.

“Secondly, the money will fund the complete furnishing of a brand new counselling room where families can receive bereavement support. It is very clear that Paul was an extremely well-loved husband, father and friend and we are pleased that his family and friends have continued to support the Hospice and remember Paul in this way. We look forward to inviting the family back to see the finished rooms very soon.”

Marie said: Paul had such drive and determination and the fact his own customers, let alone friends and family, describe him as “ funny, kind, immensely brave, enthusiastic, hardworking, committed, always willing to go the extra mile, loyal and highly dependable and always smiling” clearly explains some of the reasons for his success. He has left such a legacy.”

The hospice offers in-patient stay on a short-term basis for symptom control or pain relief, longer term care and support to enable an individual to stay at home through to day therapy support.