Specialist Substance Misuse Midwife, Kim Walsh wrote to explain how the staff on ward 8d made her grandmother Minnie's 90th birthday a day they'll never forget. 

Here's what Kim wrote on behalf of her family about the exceptional care received:

"Firstly on behalf of my family I would say that we cannot thank the ward staff enough. From the bottom of our hearts we want to thank the staff of 8d for the excellent, thoughtful and dignified care they provided for our beloved mother and grandmother.

"We feel the staff went above and beyond to ensure she thoroughly enjoyed her 90th birthday surrounded by her loved ones, enjoying her music and listening to family chatter. This meant the world to us that we were able to make sure that she had this incredible milestone birthday in the best possible way.

"We were made to feel welcome by all the staff and could visit any time which meant that family members could spend these last crucial days with our much loved mum and grandmother.

"We will never forget the kindness.  

"I work for CHFT and I felt very proud the staff were so fabulous and would really like this positive feedback passed on. I know how important it is to staff"

Matron Qusva Ilyas, said "I am so so proud of the staff and the amazing care they provided for Millie in her stay with us. The ward sisters and I stood and talked with Millie's daughter for a long time listening to beautiful stories about her life. 

"What exceptional care provided by CHFT staff. I’m so happy we were able to fulfil their wishes".

Kim told us more about the party and Minnie's love for dancing.

"Mrs Minnie McArdle (nee Griffin) celebrated her 90th birthday on Ward 8d surrounded by her all her family. Mrs McArdle has 5 children, 11 grandchildren, 13 Great grandchildren and 2 Great Great grandchildren!

"The room was full of bunting, balloons, cards and flowers, tea and coffee was provided by the wonderful staff of 8d.

"Minnie was a very keen ballroom dancer, partaking in plenty of dancing holidays and group dancing with her "dancing friends". She loved nothing better than putting on her sparkly dancing shoes which continued to do so up until 2 years ago as she needed a new hip. 

"However, this did not dampen her dancing spirit and she was an avid Strictly Coming Dancing viewer and knew all the dance moves. She was a kind and generous lady with lots of friends and was well known in the Hebden Bridge for her indomitable spirit.

Her determination to live her life to the full was an inspiration to her family and all her knew her. Sadly, Minnie past away 5 days after her 90th birthday surrounded by her devastated children. She will be greatly missed by everyone."