Sabine said, “The difference was immediate when we arrived at the hospice. It was the most soothing environment.”
Peter was in his seventies when he died, leaving behind his wife, Sabine, to whom he had been married for almost 30 years. Together they had shared nearly four decades of life, building a home and a future alongside one another. Sabine, now 73, originally came from Germany but has lived in London for around 45 years and where she met Peter.
Peter was an exceptionally intelligent and brilliant electronic engineer. A mathematician and scientist by training, he became a leading expert in audio and video compression technology. Throughout his career, he developed products for his American employer for which he received a numbers of worldwide patents. As Director of Research and Development his innovations helped shape his field of expertise, a role that reflected both his expertise and leadership, reporting directly to the company’s CEO. His work was deeply analytical, and he was respected for the knowledge and precision he brought to everything he did.
About twelve years before he died, Peter was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. Despite the challenges that came with the condition, he continued to live and work as fully as possible. As time passed, however, his health became increasingly fragile. A further complication arose when he developed a benign enlarged prostate that required a catheter. Unfortunately, the catheter led to repeated infections, creating a cascade of health problems that ultimately accelerated his decline.
Early December 2025 after a fall, Peter was admitted to the Princess Royal University Hospital in Farnborough, where is remained until early Jan 2026. The hospital environment felt noisy, busy and unsettling at a time when Peter needed peace and comfort. Peter’s family recognised that a different setting would be better for this care and possibly prepare for his final days. Efforts were made to transfer him to St Christopher’s Hospice, which eventually was achieved just after New Year.
Sabine said, “The difference was immediate when we arrived at the hospice. It was the most soothing environment.” The hospice was calm, peaceful and designed for people approaching the end of their lives. The atmosphere itself seemed to ease Peter’s anxiety. Family members and friends who visited noticed the change as well. The agitation and discomfort they had seen in hospital were replaced by a sense of calm.
“St Christopher’s gave him a calmer final week and provided his family with precious reassurance during an immensely difficult time.”
For Sabine, the care provided by the hospice staff was extraordinary. Sabine said, “They paid attention not only to Peter’s medical needs but also to his dignity. Practical equipment such as catheter bags and morphine pumps were discreetly tucked away. Staff ensured he looked comfortable and cared for, preserving his sense of personhood at a time when so much else was being lost. Their kindness and professionalism helped Peter appear more peaceful and at ease.”
Sabine visited every day. Sometimes she stayed late into the night, even attempting to rest in a chair so she could remain close to him. Family and friends came to spend time with Peter and say their goodbyes. Although it was a painful period, there was comfort in seeing him settled and cared for in an environment that respected his dignity.
Peter died on 11 January, 2026 surrounded by the care and compassion that Sabine believes he deserved.
In the months after Peter’s death, Sabine found practical ways to honour his memory. She gradually began to donate his clothes to the local St Christopher’s charity shop, where his belongings that had once been part of his life will find a new purpose. She also became increasingly involved in supporting the hospice and its fundraising efforts.
One of the ways she does this is through the annual Funwalks, the biggest community event for St Christopher’s. Sabine has completed three Funwalks and proudly keeps her medal as a reminder of her involvement. Sabine said, “ I am part of a Nordic walking group and I am currently organising the next Funwalk with my friends to attend, creating WhatsApp groups to coordinate participants and encourage others to take part.” For her, the walks are about more than fundraising; they bring people together and help sustain a service that relies heavily on community support.
The Nordic Walking Group walks three times a week. Staying active has become a vital part of how she copes with grief. Alongside her walking, she teaches yoga, mainly to older people, helping others maintain their wellbeing while also finding purpose in her own routine. She has even begun attending mindfulness and forest-bathing retreats, seeking moments of reflection and peace in nature.
Six months after Peter’s death, the grief remains raw. Yet Sabine continues to move forward one day at a time. Through yoga, walking, friendships, fundraising and community involvement, she keeps herself busy while carrying Peter’s memory with her.
Sabine said, “In his final days, the care he received at St Christopher’s Hospice gave him comfort, dignity and peace. “ And in the months that followed, Sabine found strength in her community, ensuring that the support which helped Peter would continue to help others.
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