It was in deepest part of lockdown, September 2020, when my inbox lit up with an email from Alan asking to work with us – “us” being The Kirkwood- a charity that supports anyone affected by a life limiting condition in Kirklees, West Yorkshire. His energy, cackle and passion for music therapy – as well as his obsession with Eurovision- had me hook, line and sinker. From that day, Fridays became the day that Alan brought joy and music into so many people’s lives- it started as virtual but then eventually he was allowed to come to our base at Dalton and support people and their families on the inpatient unit as well as push boundaries on people’s perception of hospice care with the creation of the inclusive singing group The Kirkwood Chorus.

Alan championed a person centred approach and focussed on what was right with people rather than what was wrong with people. He created moments and memories that will stay with many families for the rest of their lives as their loved one approached the end of life. He brought people together in song – to laugh, to cry, to remember, to forget.

We went on a very big adventure when Labi Siffre allowed us to do our own special version of his song- ” It Must Be Love” – we rode the rollercoaster together and created a legacy for so many people and their families – little did we know, a year ago , how the story would change.

Rest in peace Alan – thank you for everything. Sending love and strength to his loved ones from everyone at The Kirkwood