By Izzy Hawksworth via SWNS
A heartwarming video shows end of life patients meeting and cuddling two adorable calves.
Residents at Ashgate Hospice in Chesterfield, Derbys., spent their day being entertained by four-week-old Brown Swiss cows Bonnie and Bella.
Carol Harland, 75, was only admitted into the hospice’s inpatient unit two days before the “gorgeous” cows came and visited her but said she had a “lovely day.”
Carol, who has bowel cancer, said: “The cows have been gorgeous.
“I have had a lovely day.
“Plus I had a lovely bath, reflexology and did some crafts.
“There is something all the time for you to do and everything is tailored to you.”
Her daughter Anna Crease added: “Being at the hospice has really lifted mom up.”
Another resident, Mary Elaine Thompson, 72, came to the hospice two weeks ago after being diagnosed with cancer in March.
The married-great-grandmother-of-seven said being at the hospice is like “being at The Ritz” hotel.
Mary, of Buxton, Derbys., said: “Being at Ashgate Hospice is like being at The Ritz.
“The nurses are so good; they have angel wings coming out of their heads.
“I am in the best possible place.
“I can get help when I need it and I feel secure.”
Farmer Rob Pearson, 54, and his partner Emma Brookbank took the animals from their farm in Barlow, Derbys., to the hospice.
They decided to give back to the hospice, after Rob’s mom Mona Pearson and niece Louise Pearson received end of life care there.
Rob said: “Bonnie and Bella are pedigree Brown Swiss cattle; they were born on the farm and are going to be used for milk production.
“They’re really nice cattle to deal with and they’d just been born when Ali from the hospice got in touch to ask if we had any farm animals for a visit so it made sense to bring them.
“I lost my mom in 2012, and the hospice were very good with caring for her; plus you never know if you’ll need the care yourself one day.
“It’s only down the road and I’m more than happy to do my bit to support a charity.
“You only have to see the look on the patients faces when we bring in the animals – that makes the whole thing worth it.”
Karen Walker, a ward Manager at the hospice, said: “We’re so grateful that Rob and Emma continue to visit us with their lovely farm animals.
“At Ashgate Hospice, we’re always doing what we can to make being at the hospice as special as it can be for our patients and their families, so to be able to put a smile on people’s faces means so much.
“Animals play a crucial role in providing comfort and emotional support.
“They help reduce feelings of anxiety, and stress – not only for patients but for staff too.
“Having animals around helps create a calming atmosphere, which is so important for everyone’s wellbeing.
