Wrexham man finds “new lease of life” at local hospice after heart failure diagnosis

A Wrexham man has spoken of the “new lease of life” a local hospice has given him after a heart failure diagnosis.

71-year-old Richard Elias, from Rhostyllen, was left feeling a sense of isolation after receiving the news that he had the condition.

However, since contacting Nightingale House through the hospice’s self-referral system, and starting their Wellbeing Programme sessions, he has turned his life around thanks to the help of the team.

A dedicated community councillor for over 20 years and a Veteran, Richard spoke of the profound impact the hospice team has had on his overall health through a combination of emotional support, social connections, and medical help to manage his condition.

“I have found a new lease of life thanks to the hospice,” said Richard.

“You don’t realise the isolation you feel when you are diagnosed with a condition like heart failure.

“When I came for my initial appointment, I was offered all these different services, but I was a bit hesitant about coming.

“My wife and son were with me at the appointment, and my son said, ‘sign him up for everything’, and I just looked at him, thinking, ‘I’ll speak to you later’!

“But then I came, and I was astounded by what was offered here. Coming to the Wellbeing Programme, I have played bingo, painted pots, made chocolate crispy cakes, and done so many other things.

“I am quite a quiet person, but coming here, you have to put yourself into it to get the most out of it. It takes your mindset away from your illness. I think it’s amazing!”

Richard also praised the staff and atmosphere at Nightingale House, adding: “The staff are brilliant. Nightingale House is such a happy place. I don’t think I’ve ever seen a GP as much as I have while I have been at the hospice.

“All the staff take the time to really listen to what you need to say, and you feel comfortable talking to them about any worries you have, which I’ve found really helpful.”