Bradley Crees, London:
The Island may be fortunate to offer beautiful beaches, incredible views and insightful history, but one of its greatest treasures is the Mountbatten Hospice - a shining example of the best of what humanity can offer.
My Mum, Marina Crees, was born in 1962 in Rattray Head, Scotland and moved to the Isle of Wight 31 years ago with my Dad, Geoff Crees and my sister Hayley - I was born shortly after.
The Isle of Wight was a humble beginning for our family, and we took full advantage of what this wonderous little rock had to offer.
My Mum, an angel on earth, did her best for us and for those around her, so it only seemed right that Mountbatten's angels took care of her when it came her time to leave.
In January we discovered Mum's breast cancer had come back and had appeared in her liver. Chemotherapy was instant. Shortly after her third session, she developed sepsis and was brought into the hospice for what was predicted as a short stay.
The nurses gave us our space and their honest opinion of how the next few days would unfold.
The first miracle happened at the end of February, and Mum managed to fight back against both sepsis and the cancer. We were stunned.
Miraculously within a week she was sat up in bed, her appetite had returned, and within no time we were laughing with the nurses again.
For the next two months, we would learn how strong our Mum truly was, as she gave us extra time to say goodbye.
The time was a blessing due to the kind nature and efficiency of the Mountbatten staff.
We formed a close bond with the volunteers, healthcare assistants, reception staff and cleaners. All who gave their time to others, for having similar stories themselves.
Their brightness, humour, humility and love was unlike any I've ever seen - they really became a part of the family.
Despite being in a situation none of us would wish upon our worst enemy, my Mum managed to rally friends from all corners of the hospice, and with their gentle warmth and overwhelming generosity, they gave Mum a peaceful end to her story.
Our family participated in Walk The Wight on Sunday, and within a day of starting our fundraising we reached our target. (Click here to donate)
With the love and support of friends and family near and far, we've raised over £2,400 for Mountbatten.
But this is not the end, as a family, we will continue to support and shower praises on the people and charity that gave us hope when there was none.
Although my story is one in a million, so are the staff of Mountbatten.
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