Family Stories & Testimonials

Finding Peace

One of the basic foundations of yoga is the Golden Rule, “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” And Claire Matthews, owner of Yoga Truly in Grimsby, is an embodiment of that yogic philosophy. As a Compassionate Community initiative, Claire works with McNally House to bring a safe and serene space to people experiencing grief. Once a week, the studio offers a free class geared specifically to those who are journeying through grief; a class that is open, welcoming, gentle and, above all, restorative in every sense.

Dick & Barbara Maxwell

There was always a twinkle in Dick Maxwell’s eye, a bright grin and a ready joke or comment. He saw life as an opportunity to have a good time, and he seized every moment, playing and working hard throughout his life, surrounded with good friends and a loving family. He returned that love with loyal care, both to his children and to Barb, his high school sweetheart. Barb was young when they met, but Dick knew as soon as he saw her that she would be the girl he would marry, and he did, creating a beautiful life together for 66 years.

The Moore Family Story

Hugh Moore had a larger than life personality. His deep spirituality and a great sense of humor served him well in so many aspects of his life – from building a successful family business (H. Moore Printing Services Ltd) to his volunteer ministry at a local nursing home. Anyone who met Hugh learned quickly he was a character, but above everything else that he was a family man. So when Hugh’s health began to fail him at the age of 87, his beloved son Alex and daughter in-law Vera were so happy to find a place like McNally House Hospice for Hugh.

The Edmondson Family Story

“Death is a difficult journey we must all take, but McNally House Hospice showed my family that it can be done beautifully,” explains Beth Carravagio of Beamsville.

Over the last two and a half years Beth, her siblings Gordon, Sandra, Kenneth, and their families, have dealt with the loss of their much loved parents, Joan and Murray Edmondson.

The Fracchioni Family Story

It’s a bright afternoon and the Fracchioni family is gathered around the dining room table to share Sunday lunch like they have done so many times before. But as the family laughs and shares stories, it quickly becomes clear that a very special person is missing from this gregarious bunch.

Ann Durham

For Ann Durham facing the reality of her husband Jim’s sudden death seemed insurmountable – until she found McNally House Hospice. Ann and Jim shared a wonderful life. 54 years of marriage, five great kids, and a growing number of grandchildren! After living in Burlington for 47 years, they sold their family home and looked forward to many happy years of retirement in Grimsby. Unfortunately these plans would be cut short.

The Mackey Family

Damion Mackey was as energetic and lively as any little boy you could imagine. He kept his parents Lynn and Tim Mackey constantly on the go! But at around the age of seven, Lynn noticed Damion was having problems with his balance, and then his speech started to change. After many rounds with different doctors, Damion was diagnosed with Juvenile Huntington’s disease.

Meet The McDaniel’s

“He lived larger than life.” This is how Becky McDaniel describes her husband Darryl who passed away all too soon at the young age of forty-seven on August 22, 2015. For more than two years Darryl fought a courageous battle with cancer, all the time living every day to its fullest.

Alyson & Janice

McNally House Hospice strives to bring unconditional compassion to the Niagara West community. This promise would not be possible without the dedication and caring of the truly unique individuals who are its staff and volunteers.