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 Glasgow and went on to raise three children together: Lynn, David and Ian.
Daughter Lynn explains:
‘Sadly mum became unwell in her mid-50s and was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. Treatment at that time was not as advanced as it is today, and she was very unwell while receiving chemotherapy at the old Belvidere Hospital.’
Lynn recalls how her father cared for Eleanor at home for as long as possible.
‘My dad looked after mum at home until January 1995, when her condition deteriorated and she was admitted to the hospice in Carlton Place. We were so grateful to the staff for the wonderful care they gave mum in her final days, right up until she died on 31 January 1995.’
The family carry a particular sadness that Eleanor never had the chance to meet her grandchildren.
‘It was heartbreaking that, because of her untimely death, she never got to know any of her six grandchildren, all of whom were born after she died.’
Care That Made a Difference
Son David also remembers the compassion shown to both his mum and the whole family during an incredibly difficult time.
‘The care mum received in the hospice, and the understanding of how she was feeling as well as how we were all feeling, was exceptional.’
One small memory has stayed with him ever since.
‘I remember the nurses always making sure she had an ice lolly to help ease the pain in her mouth from ulcers caused by her treatment. It meant so much.’
A Lasting Legacy
As a family, the Cobbans have continued to support cancer charities wherever possible.
‘It was always my dad’s intention to leave a small gift in his Will to the hospice, because of the excellent care mum 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 on caring for those who need us most.
