Family Remembers Stuart Hall, a Loving Husband and Father

Stuart Hall, a devoted husband and father, passed away at the age of 33 after a prolonged battle with a brain tumour. His family, particularly his wife Sarah and their two children, Ethan and Jessica, are sharing their story to highlight the support they received during this difficult time, especially from the Northern Ireland Hospice.

In November 2016, Stuart began experiencing troubling symptoms, including a “focal seizure” that involved pins and needles in one arm, unusual tastes and smells, and difficulty speaking. A diagnosis followed in January 2017, revealing a grade four glioblastoma, the most aggressive form of brain cancer. Just weeks after the diagnosis, Stuart underwent an awake craniotomy, followed by another surgery and a course of chemotherapy and radiotherapy. For several years, his scans remained clear, but in April 2021, the tumour returned, necessitating further surgery. Another tumour developed in April 2022, which was deemed inoperable.

Sarah described Stuart as a kind, caring individual with a vibrant personality. “He had such a big smile that would light up the room,” she recalled. “Stuart was a real practical joker, always bringing a smile to everyone’s face.” The couple had recently purchased their first home in Carrickfergus and cherished family outings, whether it was attending car shows or enjoying day trips to local attractions.

The last six months of Stuart’s life were particularly challenging as his condition deteriorated. He lost mobility and began to struggle with speech. During this time, the Hall family began to explore hospice care, initially hesitant about the decision. “We didn’t know much about it,” Sarah admitted. “To us, he was being taken out of home, and we wanted to keep him at home as long as possible.”

Their perspective changed when Stuart was admitted to the Northern Ireland Hospice’s In-Patient Unit. “Almost the minute we stepped through the doors, it was like a massive weight lifted off our shoulders. Stuart looked so comfortable,” Sarah said. The hospice staff not only provided critical medical care but also created a supportive environment for the entire family.

During Stuart’s nine days in hospice care, the staff engaged with Ethan and Jessica, helping them cope with the situation. They organized activities, such as pumpkin carving for Halloween, baking sessions, and even facilitated quiet study time for Ethan, who was preparing for a transfer test. “The staff treated our children like they were VIPs,” Sarah emphasized, noting how their kindness made a lasting impact on the family.

Stuart passed away peacefully on October 26, 2022, surrounded by his family. Sarah reflected on the invaluable support provided by the hospice, saying, “Hospice allowed me to be his wife, and a mum to my children. It gave us the chance to live with him, make memories, and not have the worry of his pain on our minds.”

As the Northern Ireland Hospice prepares for its annual remembrance service, Lights to Remember, Sarah and her children will participate by lighting the first candle in memory of Stuart. The event, scheduled for December 18 at 19:00 at Dominican College, Fortwilliam, serves as a poignant reminder of love and loss, with each light representing a cherished memory.

Sarah hopes that sharing their family’s experience will encourage others to consider the hospice’s vital services. “The saddest of days were made bearable only by the kindness and compassion shown by the staff of the hospice,” she said. Their dedication ensures that families across Northern Ireland continue to receive the care and support they need during the most challenging times.

For more information on the Lights to Remember service or to support the Northern Ireland Hospice, visit www.nihospice.org/lights.