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A Caerphilly man is helping raise awareness of the work of Marie Curie by speaking to community groups and businesses across the borough.

Bill Jenkins, a former journalist, became involved with the charity after the death of his father, who received end of life care at Marie Curie’s hospice in Penarth.

He said the support his family received during and after his father’s illness inspired him to volunteer as part of the Marie Curie Speaker Programme, which sees volunteers give talks about the charity’s work.

Bill, who has a background in media, uses his experience to give presentations at events ranging from local society meetings to business fundraisers. He said many people are unaware of the full range of services Marie Curie now provides.

“People often think of Marie Curie as just a cancer charity, or of hospices as places for people in their final days,” he said. “But Marie Curie helps people with any terminal illness, and hospices can also provide therapy, companionship and outpatient care. A lot of people are surprised at just how much support is available.”

He recalled one story that stood out during his father’s time at the hospice – when a chef tracked down a Portuguese recipe after speaking with a patient about the food he missed from home. A few days later the patient was served stewed octopus and wine from Portugal.

“That sums up the personal care Marie Curie gives,” Bill said. “The hospice isn’t a sad place – it’s somewhere full of kindness and dignity.”

Marie Curie provides end of life care for people with illnesses including dementia, heart and lung disease, motor neurone disease, Parkinson’s and advanced cancer. The charity also offers support to families and campaigns nationally on issues around death, dying and bereavement.

Anyone interested in booking a speaker for their community group or business can email wales.speakerprogramme@mariecurie.org.uk.

About Marie Curie

Marie Curie is the UK’s leading end of life charity. It provides care and support for people living with a terminal illness, including cancer, dementia, motor neurone disease, Parkinson’s and heart or lung conditions. The charity runs hospices, supports people at home, funds research and campaigns to improve end of life care.

For help or information visit www.mariecurie.org.uk or call the free Support Line on 0800 090 2309.