In tribute to an amazing Father to myself and Jeremy. For his devoted wife Prue who nursed him at home through it all, and made it possible for him to die peacefully at home on Sunday 16th December 2012 A message from Mick's wife, Prue: With the NHS constantly in the news for failing to provide quality care, I have paused to consider the experience my family and I had when Mick was diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis in 2009. I would like to take this opportunity to relate how much we appreciated the care and support he and the family received from all those involved during his last three years. By reflecting on these last three years and Mick’s passing, I know that a gap has opened that will never close. He wanted to remain at home and live as normally as possible. He rarely complained about his shortness of breath, it was more the feeling of increasing agitation and anxiety as he mobilised. Mick was very concerned that he might require hospitalisation as his health declined and this made us all the more determined to follow his wishes. We are so fortunate to have some very close friends and relatives and their visits and support helped so much in the maintenance of normality. The support of close friends, clinicians and associated services cannot be underestimated. It is a journey into the unknown, the ‘how and when’ it will end eludes not only the patient and family, but to some extent the medical team too. There are two clinicians who managed Mick’s treatment and especially deserving of our extra thanks. Dr Sarah Haney, Consultant in Respiratory Medicine at Wansbeck General Hospital, and Jenny Rasmussen a Community Specialist Nurse Practitioner who worked for BOC Healthcare the Oxygen Service. Dr Sarah Haney always made time to listen - she had great empathy and we never felt rushed at a consultation. She inspired confidence and it was almost like visiting a knowledgeable friend. Dr Haney and her team also responded quickly if contacted when additional advice was needed Jenny Rasmussen has a very special gift relating to people. I looked forward to her visits and so did Mick. Jenny had a way of talking to him, raising his self-esteem and encouraging his sense of humour. She gave me confidence managing Mick’s oxygen, his daily care, and to work through problems that occurred. When she said she was going to change a treatment or to speak with Dr Haney, she did and never delayed or forgot to do so. We never felt vulnerable - I knew that if I contacted her, Jenny would respond. Jenny was very aware how much we really valued Dr Haney and her support. Although Jenny knew she was moving to another post she delayed informing us. However, when she discovered Dr Haney was to be taking maternity leave she told us and said not to worry ‘I will keep in touch’ and she did!. That was the best and most supportive thing she could have done. Jenny you are an absolute star! You thoroughly deserve your Queen’s Award and I and the family will remember you always. Prue Smith 24th June 2013