On behalf of all at Hospice at Home West Cumbria, we would like to express our deep sadness at the announcement of the passing of our Vice President Lord Judd of Portsea. Lord Judd was a great supporter of our charity and always had kind and encouraging words for our staff and volunteers. He once said “We are one terrific team: what a joy it is for me to be part of it”.
Having been inspired by his time as President, Lord Judd was keen to remain involved as Vice President of Hospice at Home West Cumbria. He articulated why Hospice was so close to his heart:
“The majority of people want to finish their lives in the familiar surroundings of their homes with their loved ones and family around them. Hospice at Home West Cumbria, with sensitive professionals and volunteers working together, provides the support to make this possible. The family and bereavement support team answer the challenging call to look to the support and well-being of the bereaved. It is one of the key aspects of our work.
One of the most wonderful realities about Hospice at Home is that it really does “belong” to a wide cross section of the community of West Cumbria. The spirit and commitment of staff and volunteers alike is precious and the patients and their families are central to it all. We are one terrific team: what a joy it is for me to be part of it.”
Our President, Dr Brian Herd paid tribute:
“I first approached Frank in 2008, to ask if he would introduce an event celebrating the 21st anniversary of Hospice at Home West Cumbria. He had not been aware of Hospice at Home previously. He asked many questions and read the book Hospice Without Walls which chronicles the very beginnings of Hospice at Home West Cumbria. He then enthusiastically agreed. He gave a vigorous, stimulating speech at the meeting. Thereafter became one of our most energetic and enthusiastic supporters, as too did his wife Chris. The ideals and aspirations of the Hospice at Home chimed in so well with their values and priorities.
Subsequently, when the Dowager Lady Egremont, our first President, stood down, we were delighted to welcome Lord Judd in her place. Frank will be sorely missed. Our kindest thoughts go to Chris and their family at this time of great loss.
There is a quote from Wordsworth that seems apt – ‘the best portion of a good man’s life is his little, nameless, unremembered acts of kindness and of love.’”
Our Vice President, Dr Rob Walker also paid this tribute:
“I first met Lord Judd when I became Chair of the Trustees of Hospice at Home West Cumbria. It was apparent that he was an enthusiastic supporter of the model of delivering end of life care at home, and in fact when he spoke in debates in the House of Lords he always mentioned West Cumbria as an example.
I soon appreciated his wide experience of both politics and the charity sector and he rapidly became a friend and mentor. Our meetings on Saturday mornings at his cottage in Thackthwaite (including delicious biscuits and cake cooked by his wife Chris) were something I always enjoyed.
I shall miss his passion and wisdom”
Brendon Cook, Chairman of Hospice at Home West Cumbria said:
“Throughout my short tenure of being Chairman of this wonderful organisation I have known Lord Judd as an avid supporter and Vice President. His heart was and will always be with us. Our sincere condolences to Lady Judd and family. He will be sadly missed.”
It was an honour to have Lord Judd as part of our Hospice team and he will be fondly remembered and greatly missed. Our thoughts go out to his wife Christine, and all their family.
