THE team at the Garden House Hospice in Letchworth GC has been nominated in this year’s Comet Community Awards for their “exceptional care”.

Dan Bodilly, of Blenheim Way in Stevenage, was diagnosed with cancer in March last year and in July was referred to the hospice for palliative care. She died in October, aged 33.

Mrs Bodilly’s husband, Scott, has nominated the hospice team – including staff, volunteers and the family support team – in the Service to the Community category of the Comet Community Awards.

The annual awards honour those who go that extra mile to help others, including charity workers, volunteers, teachers and parents.

Those nominated and subsequently shortlisted will be invited to a ceremony in May.

Mr Bodilly said the team’s nomination is “for going beyond their duty in helping [his] wife with her practical, emotional, physical and spiritual needs”.

He continued: “Dan was one person among many with similar needs to have benefited from their exceptional care.

“The family support team, the volunteers and support staff had an overwhelming impact on our lives and allowed Dan to face the most hopeless and inevitable situation with tremendous grace and dignity.

“I also found great compassion, support and friendship for myself and my family.

“The hospice is a true blessing to all those in need, facing desperately helpless circumstances.”

Jenny Lupton, general manager at the hospice, said: “We were very privileged to be able to help care for Dan and we really appreciate such a lovely nomination.”

This year’s awards are in association with Garden Square Shopping Centre in Letchworth, and are sponsored by North Hertfordshire College, North Hertfordshire Homes, Specsavers and VW Wayside of Letchworth.

For more information about the awards, including a full list of categories, and to make a nomination, visit www.thecomet24.co.uk/communityawards

* LADIES at Just 4 Women, based at Changes Fitness in Stevenage, are raising money for the Garden House Hospice in memory of Dan Bodilly.

Julie Handford, from Just 4 Women, explained: “We were so sad to hear one of the members had lost her daughter-in-law to cancer.

“Members were so taken when they heard how the hospice had taken such loving care of Dan and been so supportive of the family, they wanted to raise money for the hospice in her memory.”

Throughout Lent, the women have given up their favourite treat and are asking for donations in support of this.

Call Just 4 Women on 01438 727833 or email j4w@changesgyms.co.uk