As His Majesty reached out to grasp my hand, the significance of the momentous occasion suddenly hit me. There, in the historic hallows of St George’s Hall, as the sun set behind Windsor Castle, not only was I meeting King Charles face-to-face, but I was bestowed with a right royal opportunity to sing St Luke’s praises to the gothic-beamed rafters in the most illustrious company possible. It was an incredible privilege to be one of just four people selected to represent the hospice at such a prestigious celebration of carers, alongside Nikki Mackenzie, Clinical Admin team lead, Tina Lake, Domestics team lead, and Claire Behennah, one of our most loyal supporters and fundraisers. The grand, but relaxed, champagne reception acknowledged the King and Queen’s heartfelt gratitude to carers from all walks of life, both professional and personal. We were joined by more than 200 other guests from charities and community groups across the UK, as well as individuals, including young children, being recognised for their selfless dedication to the care of people close to them.

At 102, retired nurse Rhoda Till is living proof that age is no barrier when it comes to volunteering for St Luke’s. Giving back to her community is still hugely important for the former night ward sister, mother of three and great, great, grandmother who was inspired to join our charity shop team around 30 years ago when she saw how much her daughter, Rosemary, loved her weekly volunteering sessions. “I didn’t think I would still be volunteering at 102 but I thoroughly enjoy every minute of it. It makes me feel useful and lets me enjoy a little bit of social life,” said Rhoda, who had the privilege of being introduced to the King when he paid a visit to St Luke’s in the 1990s. Then a couple of years’ ago he sent her a card for her 100th birthday.

St Luke’s was overflowing with Christmas spirit last Friday as staff went above and beyond to create a warm and joyful evening for current patients and their loved ones, as well as families who will be missing someone special for the first time this year. Team members from across our organisation came together, giving up their own time to create a magical occasion featuring sparkling decorations, festive refreshments, Christmas music and live seasonal songs from the Burraton Boys and a raffle with super prizes.