Simon's Story

When you play Your Hospice Lottery, you're helping local hospices provide vital care and support to people facing some of life's toughest moments.

For Simon, that support came through KEMP Hospice's Family Support & Bereavement Service after the sudden loss of his mum.

Coping with Loss While Becoming a Dad

Simon was in his early thirties when his world changed overnight. Just two days after his birthday in September 2023, his mum, Annette, passed away suddenly from a blood clot.

"One day, life was normal, and the next it was, 'What's life now?'"

At the same time, Simon was juggling the demands of family life. His second son, Archie, was born just a few months later, and further challenges followed when his wife was made redundant during maternity leave.

After spending months trying to process everything on his own, Simon realised he needed support.

A Safe Space to Talk

Having heard about KEMP's bereavement counselling from another parent at his son's school, Simon eventually reached out for help.

Although he felt comfortable expressing his emotions, counselling gave him something different: a dedicated space to explore his grief without judgement.

"It was so important just having that conversation each week. Speaking to someone who was neutral, who wasn't a family member or friend, made a huge difference."

Through counselling, Simon was able to reflect on his loss, his relationships and the emotions he had buried while trying to keep going for those around him.

"There were some days I'd come in and just cry. That's good though. Everyone has emotions, and it's how you deal with them."

Remembering a Much-Loved Mum

Simon describes his mum, Annette, known to family and friends as Netta, as "a beautiful soul" who shaped the man he is today.

"She was an incredible person. She brought calm to us and taught me so much without even knowing it."

Annette was just 63 when she died.

"You feel robbed. She had so much life to live and would have loved to see her grandchildren grow up."

The experience has changed Simon's perspective on what's important.

"Time with loved ones is so important. Life gets busy, but you realise that nothing matters more than being with the people you care about."

Encouraging Others to Reach Out

Looking back, Simon has one clear message for anyone struggling with grief or difficult life circumstances.

"Just do it. Be open enough and vulnerable enough to talk."

"The service at KEMP is exceptional. Whatever you've been through, whatever you're struggling with, it's so important to talk to someone."

Your Lottery Play Makes Stories Like Simon's Possible

Every week, players of Your Hospice Lottery help fund essential hospice services, including emotional and bereavement support for patients and families.

Because of lottery supporters, people like Simon can access professional counselling when they need it most, helping them navigate loss, process difficult emotions and find a way forward.

By playing Your Hospice Lottery, you're helping local hospices continue to provide compassionate care and support to families across their communities.

Play today and help ensure more people like Simon can receive the support they need when life feels at its most challenging.