Hospice stories featured in photo exhibition

Kathy Martin, 80, has received treatment for breast cancer, lung cancer and bowel cancer

A photography exhibition seeking to open up conversations about terminal illness has launched in Derbyshire.

Life's Final Chapter has been curated by Ashgate Hospice, based in Chesterfield, and features those personally facing death or dealing with the loss.

Claire Shaw, hospice director of care services, said: "It's a topic many of us prefer to avoid, but it's so important to face it openly and honestly."

It features the work of Nottinghamshire-based arts photographer Billy Bye, who said he wanted to document "struggles and triumphs".

Alan Cohen, 81, received end-of-life care before his death from T-cell lymphoma in March

The exhibition, on display at the hospice and online, launched on Monday to coincide with Hospice Care Week and features 15 people, all of whom have been touched by death and dying in some way.

It includes the experiences of people living with an incurable illness, their families, and the healthcare professionals who support them.

Michael Siddall said positivity was key as both he and his wife were treated for cancer

Michael Siddall, 66, was diagnosed with advanced prostate cancer in 2019 and has outreach support from the hospice's day services unit.

Mr Siddall, from Clowne in Derbyshire, said: "Sharing my story for the exhibition has made me think positively, with an aim to live as good a life as possible for as long as I can.

"I understand it is inevitable that I will probably have a shorter life than I had once expected, but I hope to fight the illness so I can be around for as long as possible.

"Now my focus is on making more memories with my wife by doing as much as I can whilst I am able to – especially after she was also diagnosed with cancer in 2022.

"Remaining positive is essential."

Graham Matthews's wife of 45 years, Diane, was cared for after being diagnosed with a rare neurological condition

Kathy Martin, 80, has received treatment for breast cancer, lung cancer and bowel cancer as a hospice outpatient.

She said: "My experiences have helped me learn to love every moment of night and day as time has become so very precious.

"For me death in this life means life in the next."

The images were captured at the hospice in the early part of 2024.

Photographer Mr Bye said: "I found myself drawn in, empathising with their struggles and triumphs, while trying to maintain that professional distance.

"I am delighted with how the series of portraits turned out.

"They are gritty, honest, and direct."

Monika Zywicka has volunteered as a bereavement counsellor for nearly two years

Ms Shaw said: "Thanks to their generous participation, our patients, families, and team members have allowed us to share a rare glimpse into what it means to live fully, even as life draws to a close."

People can also see the exhibition in person at the hospice's site in Old Brampton, Chesterfield between 7 October and 29 November.

Lung Li, with his pet dog, received end-of-life care for stomach cancer in March