An animal-loving hospice patient has been treated to a surprise visit from not one – but three horses this week.
Stephanie Jenner, who is being cared for at St Richard’s Hospice in Worcester, enjoyed a visit from Conker the ex-racehorse and Cherry the Welsh Mountain Pony on Wednesday 23rd August – while Fifi the Shetland pony arrived the next day.
Friends, volunteers and staff gathered to meet the friendly creatures – while Miss Jenner was able to groom, stroke and spend time with each horse.
The 61-year-old, who used to work with horses, even accompanied Fifi on a stroll around the hospice’s garden.
Miss Jenner, who has cancer, said: “I grew up with horses and worked in different yards. It has been about 20-odd years since I worked with horses. They are just amazing creatures to work with.
“These visits mean the world to me, they really do. I’m just most grateful to everyone – not only the hospice but the folk who have brought the horses. It is so kind of them, I can’t thank them enough.”
Miss Jenner, who lives in Droitwich, enjoys spending time with animals and has been a volunteer with the Worcestershire Wildlife Trust for many years.
Laura Thomson, a friend of Miss Jenner who was visiting her at the hospice, said: “I think that St Richard’s is the most beautiful, incredible place. When you come here you realise it is a happy place.”
Conker and Cherry were brought to St Richard’s by Geoff Richmond, of Padsview in Tewkesbury, while Fifi belongs to the Phoenix Children’s Foundation in Ashby-de-la-Zouch.
June Patel, Chief Executive at St Richard’s, said: “We are so pleased to have been able to make these visits happen for Stephanie.
“We know from experience the therapeutic benefit animals can bring to patients at the hospice, so we were delighted to welcome Cherry, Conker and Fifi this week.”
To watch a video of Miss Jenner strolling round the garden with Fifi, click here.