A Life Remembered
Eleanor Cobban was born on 25 October 1934 and grew up in the Pollok area of Glasgow. In the late 1950s she met her future husband, John Cobban, and the couple married in 1961. They made their home in the Newlands area of the city and went on to raise three children together: Lynn, David and Ian.
Eleanor became unwell in her mid-50s and was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. At that time, treatment was not as advanced as it is today, and she was very unwell while receiving chemotherapy at the old Belvidere Hospital.
Her husband John cared for her at home for as long as possible, until her condition deteriorated in January 1995 and she was admitted to the hospice at Carlton Place. The family remain deeply grateful for the care Eleanor received in her final days, right up until her death on 31 January 1995.
The family carry a particular sadness that Eleanor never had the chance to meet her grandchildren. All six were born after her death, something her children still reflect on with heavy hearts.
Care That Made a Difference
Eleanor’s son David remembers not only the care given to his mum, but the compassion shown to the whole family during an incredibly difficult time. The hospice team understood how Eleanor was feeling, as well as the emotional strain her loved ones were under.
One small act of kindness has stayed with him ever since. The nurses made sure Eleanor always had an ice lolly to help soothe the painful mouth ulcers caused by her treatment. Though simple, it meant a great deal to both Eleanor and her family.
A Lasting Legacy
As a family, the Cobbans have continued to support cancer charities wherever possible. It had always been John’s intention to leave a small gift in his Will to the hospice, in recognition of the excellent care Eleanor received.
Gifts left in Wills help us continue caring for patients and families now and in the future. One in ten of the local people we care for at the hospice are currently funded by gifts in Wills. We simply could not do what we do without them.
To everyone who has chosen to leave a gift to The Prince & Princess of Wales Hospice in their Will, thank you. Your kindness makes a real difference and helps us keep caring for those who need us most.
