MIKE Cotter is the husband of Barbara, an in-patient at the Bolton Hospice.

Here Mike tells the emotive story of his wife's time in the Hospice and talks of the fears they had before she was admitted, fears which were soon to be proved unfounded.

His story will be familiar to many and a comfort to anyone who is facing admittance to the Hospice.

This is his personal view of Bolton Hospice.

He says: "After nine months of nursing my wife, Barbara, who is living with ovarian cancer, we looked at each other with some doubt when she was offered a bed at Bolton Hospice.

"I honestly think we both thought 'oh no, not this soon', but how very wrong we were, we were about to find out.

"She was admitted to the Hospice and we were still unsure what the future had to hold, but as soon as we arrived in this lovely place we felt so much at ease and were welcomed by the most wonderful group of people.

"Everything about the Hospice was explained in much detail and we were assured that anything which could possibly be done to control the pain and other symptoms would be done, without exception.

"As soon as you walk into the Hospice you feel a sense of great warmth, security, compassion and tenderness. The whole place can only be described as 'wonderful'.

"My wife was admitted in a very poorly state, having not eaten for about three weeks, consequently she was extremely weak -- to say the least we were all extremely worried and concerned. She had asked for a party to see all her friends and family together, which was organised within three days and, with the skill and dedication of everyone at the Hospice, she was able to attend and enjoyed the evening tremendously.

"Her quality of life has been returned to a really good standard, even eating as normal and walking around normally, due to the care to determine the drugs and medication which could control her pain and sickness.

"She continued to improve with the superb care and in no time was walking and was taken off all drugs, experiencing a great quality of pain-free living. Once she was coping with stairs the team was satisfied she would be able to cope at home.

"After two weeks at home her symptoms returned, due to her condition, and once again she had to return (this time with no doubt whatsoever) to the Hospice where the fantastic team has once again re-vitalised her.

"In conclusion may we both say that our vision towards Bolton Hospice has changed dramatically in that this wonderful place is designed to cope with providing the appropriate care which enables patients like my wife to continue with a good quality of life for as long as possible.

"Emphasis is also given to myself and our family in the most supportive and compassionate manner, not only by staff but also by the wonderful team of volunteers who work endlessly in this most difficult of times.

"Thank you all."