Sophie Brew works at a Sue Ryder hospice. Here are the little things that make her happy
Palliative care nurse and ward manager Sophie Brew works at a Sue Ryder Hospice, supporting people with terminal illnesses to live as fully and comfortably as possible. While some may regard the role as bleak or upsetting, Ms Brew considers her job to be deeply meaningful, and a privilege. She tells The i Paper how she finds joy in the everyday.
Appreciate the little things
“Every day, when I leave the hospice and take in a breath of fresh air, I feel an immense sense of gratitude. Having been inside on the ward all day, breathing in the outside air feels like a reset. This gives me a moment to reflect on my day and the people I’ve cared for.
“I also look forward to seeing my family. Many of our patients aren’t well enough to go home so it gives me a real sense of appreciation that I am able to do this and grateful for the time I can spend with my husband and children.”
Take a break with a daily walk
“A recent visit to the Eden Project in Cornwall allowed me to reconnect with myself. I noticed the small things – the shape of a cloud, the breeze on my face – and realised how much I take for granted.
“Time for reflection grounded me, helping me to refocus my priorities and assess my own purpose. Seeing the simple joy of flowers in bloom reminded me how lucky we are. It was a surprisingly humbling and inspirational experience for me.
“I now take daily walks and encourage my team to do the same. It has revitalised us. I’ve learned to give myself permission to have this time – not everything has to be done immediately. I am now more organised, less self-critical and more emotionally available to my family and team.”
Stepping away from your phone
“A day at the beach was another turning point for me. There was
no mobile phone signal, and we were encouraged to spend a few hours in silence. I got completely lost in my surroundings – reflecting on life experiences, stressful situations and allowing myself to simply feel my feelings.
“The sound of the beach, the feel of the waves on my feet and the sun shining down on me gave me clarity and helped me reevaluate my life. Taking this time out helped put my own daily stresses into perspective.”
Getting feedback from our patients
“At the hospice, we care for people with terminal illnesses. Our experiences are quite different from other people’s work interactions. Hearing that our care has helped a patient means everything to us.
“Recently, a patient told us how much our therapies and staff had helped with their pain and anxiety. Hearing that we’ve made a difference is incredibly uplifting – especially when you are having a bad day.
“When I am having a tough day, I remind myself of these moments and it puts a smile on my face. Helping people live with dignity and regain some control at the end of their lives feels like a privilege. I feel lucky I’m able to do that.”
Spending time with animals
“At home, my dog brings me so much joy, and I see the same effect when our Pets as Therapy (PAT) dogs visit the hospice.
“One of our regular visitors is Millie, a lively Labrador who comes in on a Friday. She is always so excited to be there. She’s full of energy and is often bounding around down the corridors. Recently, she even explored the reception area and stole someone’s sandwich, which provided a lot of laughter.
“But the moment she steps into a patient’s room, she transforms. She’s incredibly calm and either sits quietly or relaxes on a patient’s bed enabling them to stroke her, which provides patients with a remarkable amount
of comfort.
“Patients love visits from our PAT dogs and it’s lovely to see how much happiness an animal can bring.”
Helping people live well and make meaningful memories
“As a palliative care nurse, our patients’ experience is so important and it’s the small things that matter.
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“We recently had a patient who hadn’t been able to take a bath for a long time, but with the right care and therapies, we made it possible for them. Seeing their joy in such a simple experience can make my day.
“We also help patients and their families to celebrate special occasions, whether it’s arranging birthday decorations or asking the kitchen to prepare party food. These moments create lasting memories for patients and loved ones.
“Many of our patients have been in hospital for months and long to be outside. We’re fortunate that every patient room opens onto our gardens, giving them access to fresh air and nature. Watching someone enjoy the sun on their face or a gentle breeze is a powerful reminder of how much we take for granted.”
Sitting down with a good book
“When I am away from the busy ward, I cherish the quiet moments when I can lose myself in a book. Getting lost in fiction allows me to escape and step into another world, even just for a short while.
“Taking time for moments that bring you peace and joy is essential, as well as being of huge benefit to your own mental health and wellbeing. Prioritising personal wellbeing is a necessity to ensure I’m able look after other people.”
