Shane, from Braintree, explains why support from Farleigh Hospice was so important when his family were caring for his brother, Robson.
Robson’s brother Shane said “No-one ever had a bad word to say about my brother, Robson. He was a kind person who was always smiling and loved horse racing, football and golf.
Robson was 22 and working nights at a supermarket when he first became ill. He assumed his headaches and tiredness were due to his job. Eventually, he had an in-depth eye test which showed there was something wrong. After further tests at the hospital, he was diagnosed with a brain tumour.
We come from a very close family with our parents, sister, Ceejay, and brothers, Owen and Alfie. We were all there to support Robson throughout his treatment.
He had an operation on the tumour in June 2022 and we were really happy that he was well enough to be at my wedding in July.
Shane (left) at his wedding with his brother Robson
The following month, he had a bigger operation to try to remove the tumour. Unfortunately, Robson had a major stroke afterwards, which affected his mobility and caused expressive dysphasia, so he could only say a few words.
When he eventually came back home to my parents’ house, they contacted Farleigh Hospice to see if they could help us to care for him. Straight away, Sally from Farleigh arranged regular physiotherapy at the hospice and at home to improve Robson’s strength and walking.
The Farleigh occupational therapist got him a special chair, which he loved, so he was comfortable and could sit and stand more easily. They also arranged for a stairlift to be installed so he could get to the upstairs bathroom. This equipment
helped Robson to keep his independence and dignity and improved his quality of life.
The Benham family enjoying a weekend in the family caravan
Farleigh kept in regular contact with my family as we cared for him at home, giving us expert advice and support whenever we needed it. Robson’s health gradually got worse and he died on 10 August 2023, aged 23.
My Mum and Ceejay have had counselling from Farleigh to help them cope with their grief. Mum has also been to a support group for bereaved parents, where she found it helpful to talk to other people who have also lost a child.
Caring for Robson would have been a lot tougher without Farleigh Hospice, so I decided to take part in the 2026 London Marathon to say thank you. My wife, Zoe, helped with my fundraising and we’ve raised over £6,250 so Farleigh can be there for other families.
Shane at the 2026 TCS London Marathon
As my Mum said, from the day we brought Robson home from hospital, Farleigh Hospice supported the whole family through everything. They were so kind, compassionate and understanding, not just with Robson but with us all. They were absolutely incredible and went above and beyond to help – nothing was ever too much trouble.”
Donate to our Summer Memories Appeal
Can you help us to continue to be there for people like Robson by donating to our Summer Memories Appeal?
You are warmly invited to our new Summer Memories Service on Saturday 13 June.
The service takes place from 2pm to 5pm in the hospice gardens. Everyone is welcome at this relaxed and informal event which is free to attend.