Phil Stubbs

Dear Phil - my strong, kind, funny, one-of-a-kind, husband, died at home on Monday 3rd February.

From May 2021, Phil had lived courageously and defiantly, with terminal cancer. He found support in his family and in local groups, often comforting others in similar situations, something he did quietly. Phil even launched his own brand of t-shirts (‘Team Terminal’), an effort to inject humor into a subject that hangs over many people’s heads. I will not say that any of this has been an easy time, and now, here we are…

One aspect of living with terminal cancer that is often overlooked, is the impact on the individual's mental health. The emotional toll is often stronger post-treatment with 82% of cancer sufferers stating that the fear of the cancer returning, not feeling like your 'old self', feelings of depression or low mood, pressure to get back to 'normal', and feelings of loneliness and isolation were some of the hardest things to deal with following their cancer treatment. Phil really struggled with this and in the end, it overwhelmed him.

In his memory, and because it's needed, we want to get a "comfort" bench put into a local park, where individuals who are struggling in life can go and sit. And maybe, just maybe, a kind soul will come and sit with them, to let them know they aren't alone, and that things will get better. Phil would want this.

Any donations are very gratefully received. If we exceed the amount required for the bench, we will donate the surplus to Maggie's - a charity that provides expert care and support (including mental health) for cancer sufferers.

Thank you so much for being his friend and for sharing moments of joy with Phil and being a part of his life.

Phil's wife, Emily