A local hospice has praised comedian Janey Godley for opening up discussions on dying after she announced she was beginning end-of-life care earlier this week.
The well-loved comic, 63, posted on social media earlier this week with the tragic news after revealing an ongoing battle with cancer had now led to the disease spreading through her body.
Godley announced in November 2021 that she had ovarian cancer, but received the all-clear in 2022, before a later scan revealed the cancer had returned.
In the video posted to her X account, Godley said: “The chemo ran out of options and I just couldn’t take any more of it – and the cancer has spread.
“So it looks like this will be getting near the end of it – and it’s really difficult to speak about this and say it to people.
“It is devastating news to know I’m facing end of life, but we all come to an end sometime.
“The overwhelming support has been amazing and I don’t know how long I’ve got left, before anybody asks.”
Following the news, there has been an outpouring of well-wishes and also support for her bravery as she faces down the prospect of palliative care.
Strathcarron Hospice are among those offering their support, with staff member Katy Whitelaw, taking part in a phone-in with Stephen Jardine on BBC Radio Scotland on the announcement and on end-of-life care.
Ms Whitelaw, who works as a communications officer for Strathcarron, said: “We were delighted to be part of these discussions, encouraging people to have these difficult, but so important conversations as early as possible, before it is too late.
“Preparing for the future is an act of love and consideration, especially during times that are emotionally challenging. Our ‘All About Me’ booklet which we highlighted on BBC Radio Scotland can help with these conversations, and help capture important details too.
“This useful resource aims to provide guidance and support for individuals and their families as they navigate this difficult journey.”
The booklet enables those going through palliative care to record and find important information about their life, without having to sort through file after file.
Designed to help document your wishes and preferences, including funeral arrangements and other important details, it can offer peace of mind.
This book is an opportunity to chat through wishes while keeping all the information in one, safe place and can be downloaded here: .strathcarronhospice.net/News/all-about-me