Fighting fit thanks to St Oswald's Hospice

“The staff are all marvellous and happy – they light up my days!”

Norman’s passion for boxing started when he was just 10 years old. 

“My dad taught me and my brothers to box. They didn’t take to it, but I was instantly hooked,” the now 89-year-old explained. 

Norman has devoted his life to the sport as an amateur boxer, a boxing coach, a referee and an official. 

He even met ‘The Greatest of All Time’ when Muhammad Ali visited the North East of England in the summer of 1977.  

But perhaps the biggest fights for Norman have been in the last few years. His wife sadly died from dementia five years ago and then on Christmas Eve, 2020, he was diagnosed with terminal cancer.  

He explained: “I was tired, breathless and having problems with my balance. I went to the doctors and was told it was cancer that couldn’t be cured.” 

Norman was visiting his local hospital for treatment when it was suggested he could benefit from visiting St Oswald’s Hospice’s Focus on Living Centre for ambulatory care.  

While some people may feel uncertain when the word ‘hospice’ is mentioned, this wasn’t the case for Norman: 

“It didn’t bother me at all. The hospice is closer to home, so I thought ‘that’s nice and handy for me’.” 

Norman has been coming to St Oswald’s Hospice every 3 weeks for the past 18 months.  

During his appointment – which he describes as “champion” – he meets with a consultant and has blood transfusions as part of his ongoing treatment.  

“I used to go to the hospital, where they did their best, but it was busy, and I would be sitting around for hours feeling useless.  

“At St Oswald’s Hospice, the hospitality is second to none. I arrive at 9.30am, go straight in and am offered a cup of tea. It’s a home-from-home for me.” 

Norman gets a blood transfusion at the hospice, which is administered a little slower due to him having a pericardial heart valve replacement in 2007 – something he doesn’t mind a bit: 

“The staff are all marvellous and happy – they light up my days!” 

He added: “I also have to thank all the ladies and gentlemen who are donating the blood that is keeping me alive.” 

Most people – especially those on the verge of turning 90 – would be looking forward to convalescing at home after treatment, but not Norman. He shared he’ll be timekeeping at an amateur boxing match later the same day.   

He concluded with a defiant tone:  

“I’ve always liked a challenge and I’ve never been afraid.  

“It’s a treat to be alive, and I’m going to make the most of every moment.” 

What a champion!

Click for more information on our Focus on Living Centre