Meet the Belfast team

Staff at the Marie Curie Hospice Belfast explain why they enjoy their jobs as well as revealing their hobbies and favourite songs.

Sue Curry, Hospice Manager

What is the best part of your job?

I get to meet lots of our patients and their families and hear how the team at the hospice is making such a difference to their quality of life. Every day is different and unpredictable, but never boring.

What are your hobbies?

Training for a marathon; fine wine and dining (but not before a run).

What is your favourite song?

Angel by Sarah McLaughlan.

Tina Hill, Head Chef

What is the best part of your job?

Speaking with the patients and finding out what they like and then trying to give them whatever they want. Also, helping patients who might not have eaten for weeks to get their appetite back.

What are the most popular meals?

Main dish is fish and chips (on a Friday) and the most popular dessert is Lemon Delicious (sponge with lemon sauce).

What are your hobbies?

Reading, cinema, socialising.

Who is your favourite singer?

Shania Twain.

Kerry Mitchell, Physiotherapist

Kerry works as part of the six-strong rehabilitation team of physios and occupational therapists.

What is the best part of your job?

Seeing patients reach the goals they have set – whether that’s being able to go home or simply to go to the bathroom independently.

What are your hobbies?

Triathlon, walking and tag rugby.

Who is your favourite band?

Foo Fighters.

Miriam McKeown, Ward Manager

Miriam looks after 38 nurses, 87 ward volunteers, a rehabilitation team and 14 volunteer complementary therapists.

What is the best part of your job?

Making a difference. Before they come to the hospice, people’s experience of diagnosis and treatment can leave them feeling vulnerable. Here, they get the best possible care - delivered by the same doctors and nurses - supported by good communication.

What are your hobbies?

Sailing on Carlingford Lough.

What is your favourite song?

Night to Remember – Shalamar.

Ros Colledge, Hospice Receptionist

What is the best part of your job?

People saying how much of a difference it makes to see a smiley face when they come through the door. Also, the opportunity to get close to some families who want someone to talk to at difficult times.

What are your hobbies?

Family and Pilates.

What is your favourite song?

Anything by the Black Eyed Peas.

Lesley Wright, Hospice Fundraising Manager

How long have you worked for Marie Curie Cancer Care?

I have been in post since May 2007.

How do you make a difference to patients and carers?

The Hospice fundraising team are totally dedicated to supporting the needs of the nursing service. Therefore we are committed to working hard to support the income required to provide hospice and nursing care for all the patients and families who benefit from using our services completely free of charge.

What are your hobbies or interests away from work?

I very much enjoy spending time with my family, swimming and walking my dog Lulu. Lulu will is a three-legged Scottish terrier who lost a leg in a road accident chasing a cat.