Colleagues and family members pay tribute to much-loved Ulverston dental nurse
Colleagues and family members have paid tribute to much-loved Ulverston dental nurse, Francine Judge.
Francine, who worked at Soutergate Dental Practice for 16 years, passed away from motor neurone disease at the age of 52 recently. Her husband Peter described her as ‘kind and caring’ and said that she would always go out of her way to help others. The couple had been together since their teenage years, and Francine’s diagnosis came as a terrible shock. Just 12 months ago, Francine was running half marathons and she loved to keep fit. After experiencing pains in her shoulder and stiffness in her neck, she sought medical advice and was later diagnosed with motor neurone disease. She sadly passed away just 6 months after her diagnosis.
Peter said that the diagnosis was “devastating” because the family knew there was no cure and that she would never get better. Francine’s condition deteriorated very quickly, but she remained positive and strong, and she never complained.
Francine had worked at Soutergate Dental Practice for over 15 years when she was forced to leave due to her health. She thoroughly enjoyed work and was an integral part of the team.
In her final weeks, Francine received care at St Mary’s Hospice, and Peter said that the staff were “marvellous” and described the experience as feeling like there was a ‘warm blanket’ being put over Francine and the family. The hospice has continued to provide support, which has been invaluable, as the lockdown has meant that Peter and the couple’s children, Hayden and Madeleine, haven’t been able to see other relatives and friends.
Peter has now launched a fundraising page in memory of his wife. The initial target was £800, but the family has already raised more than £2,000 for the hospice.
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