Colin
Created by Wayne one year ago
Colin Gapper, a father, grandfather, great grandfather, uncle and friend. More than that, he was the centre in which the Gapper and Mutlow family functioned. He was the figure that provided support, guidance, love and most of all happiness. Every person who had the fortune of meeting Colin will instantly think of that infectious smile and reassuring laugh. Not to mention the childish sense of humour which turned even the sternest of individuals. He was a man who put everyone else before him, including those he had just met, and those he had known forever. He was the greatest shoulder to cry on, and the greatest presence to have in a room. Above all, he was a proud man that loved his family and his friends beyond measure, to the point that when facing death, his thoughts were with how everyone else would be.
It was hard for a man such as Colin to be move from his house, it was his home and his fortress. He valued his independence and his privacy. Many were worried how he would take to moving into Dorothy House, he rarely liked being away from home for long periods of time. However, the staff at Dorothy House could not have been better. From the minute they met him, they had him figured. They knew exactly what sort of man he was, and treated him with the respect and dignity he deserved, despite the condition he was in. They connected with him on a personal level, got to know him and discovered him to be the man we all knew and loved. They conducted themselves with complete professionalism, they provided the care he needed, whilst allowing him to maintain his pride. When several of us broke down on the bed side, they would give us a shoulder to cry on, then pick us back up.
Colin was one to appreciate natural beauty, whether that be the flowers in his allotment, or in a wild setting. One of the last natural sights he got to gaze upon was the beautiful gardens and views of the Dorothy House hospice. While it was a shame he was not mobile enough to walk among them, he did spend time staring out through the trees and down the valley. Its hard to believe these amazing gardens are maintained by volunteers.
Ultimately, Dorothy House is a place that far too few know about, but far too many have had to attend. The care they provide is far beyond what you’d expect, and when in the final hours when your loved ones approach the end, you are so grateful that they were there to hold their hands. We cannot thank them enough for what they’ve done, and continue to do for everyone else that is unfortunate enough to need them.