Page 28 - Real Rochdale Issue 23 August 2024

Sue Devaney announced as new
patron of Springhill Hospice
Rochdale’s very own soap star, singer and
mental health activist Sue Devaney has
become a patron of Springhill Hospice.
The team at Springhill cared for Sue’s
mum 20 years ago but the impact it had
on them both left a lasting effect.
Sue’s mum spent nine weeks in the
Inpatient Unit at Springhill before
spending her final hours at home with her
loved ones, where she wanted to be.
Sue’s memories of that time were that
her mum was so well cared for, that in
spite of her advancing condition, her
appetite was strong enough on her final
day to enjoy her favourite meal of
pudding, chips and peas, something Sue
had not thought possible.
Patients, staff and volunteers of
Springhill Hospice were thrilled to meet
Sue as she visited the Inpatient Unit in
July and her infectious smile and
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marvellous hugs brought a wonderful
glow to the ward.
Sue, who is best known to many as
Debbie Webster in Coronation Street
said that it’s an honour to become a
patron at the Rochdale charity.
She said: “I spent a lot of time in this
amazingly peaceful environment when
my mum was being cared for.
“The staff and carers and all the
volunteers go above and beyond and give
the best end-of-life care I have ever
witnessed. Everybody should have the
right to live and die with dignity and
respect.”
Springhill CEO Sam Wells said: “It’s a real
joy to have someone like Sue on board.
She has a genuine, warm personality and
honest desire to make the world a better
place.”
29 REAL ROCHDALE - AUTUMN 2024