• Name: Lisa Gregory
• Job title: Occupational Therapist
• Joined the team: June 2023

How did you get into your role and come to work for Katharine House?

I believe so strongly that people should be supported to live their best life and have their needs and wishes met so they can have the best death possible. Patients should always receive the best quality support, which is compassionate, respectful and focused on what patients and their families feel is most important to them. I have only recently returned to occupational therapy, and I already know that I want to work in palliative care until I retire (which isn’t that far away!).

What’s a typical day like?

My day starts with a catch up with the therapy team at 9am then off to the handover from the ward. After this, my colleague Phoebe (physio) and I plan our day. We will then see patients on the ward, perhaps looking at their mobility, thinking about possible discharge and any equipment needed at home. But most importantly, my aim is to help people achieve their personal goals, and listen to their wishes and what is important to them. I also get involved in supporting people in Living Well, in their homes and often do follow-up visits to patients’ homes when they are discharged.

What do you wish people knew about hospice care?

That hospices can be a happy place and that we do everything within our power to make sure patients and their families wishes are followed. Nothing is ever too much for the staff who provide the best care possible.

How does it feel to work for the hospice?

I feel privileged to work with such an amazing team that have made me feel most welcome. I can truly say I look forward to coming into work each day. 

What makes Katharine House so special?

As soon as you walk through the door at Katharine House there is a feeling of calmness and serenity. I have never worked with a team of such dedicated and compassionate staff where everyone is truly valued for their contribution. We have amazing leadership through Fazana and Emma – and there is always cake! 

Now for some quick-fire questions…

If I had to sum up my role in one sentence, I’d say: helping people to achieve what is most important to them.

The best thing about my job is: being privileged to work with some amazing people.

My highlight since joining Katharine House is: taking my lovely patient to Marks & Spencer shopping. 

If I could go anywhere in the world, I’d go to: Borneo.

My favourite dessert is: crème brûlée.

My all-time greatest song is: Billy, Don’t Be a Hero.

If I won the lottery, I would buy: a house with equestrian facilities and a few more horses to keep Hank (my horse) company.

My favourite season is: spring. I like the sunny days but it’s not too hot and there are no flies about to hassle Hank when I am riding.

People are often surprised when I tell them: I once backpacked around America on my own for six months.

My favourite thing to eat is: Thai food – I love a green Thai curry.

Without doubt, the best animals are: horses

The best advice I’ve ever been given is: don’t overthink things.

My proudest moment was: having children.

When I’m not at work, you will probably find me: riding my horse (can you see there is a theme here!).

My go-to biscuit is: ginger nuts.

If I had one superpower, it would be: cure cancer.

My all-time favourite film is: The Holiday. I watch it every Christmas and can’t remember a year that I haven’t watched it. It was always with my daughter Liv, but since she has left home, I have convinced my son George that he likes chick flicks!