A 'special' woman honoured

Honoured: Margaret Geogheghan, founder of Springhill Hospice, honoured for her years of work

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“Faith can move mountains, but it’s more effective if each of us pick up a spade”. Those were the words of Margaret Geoghegan, founder of Springhill Hospice, as she was honoured at a special town hall ceremony yesterday (Sunday 22 February).

The Freedom of the Borough ceremony was dedicated to Margaret for her years of dedication to the borough of Rochdale, particularly for 20 successful years of the town’s most popular charity.

Hundreds of people attended, including local councillors, community workers, fellow Springhill Hospice staff, plus friends and family of Mrs Geoghegan.

Margaret said: “In the very first days of Springhill Hospice there was the determination to fulfil a dream. With the contribution from the council and local people, we have been able to fulfil that dream.

“As was once said to me, ‘Faith can move mountains, but it’s more effective if each of us pick up a spade’. Well done Rochdale”.

Christine Webb, Chief Executive of Springhill Hospice said Margaret devoted many years to raising funds to build the hospice, and continues to work hard to promote it: “She has always considered Springhill as the peoples Hospice and has taken great pride in watching the services on offer to patients and their families grow over the years.

“Anyone who has met Margaret will understand the determination and passion she has. Rochdale was so lucky that she had the idea of a hospice and was able to devote so much time and energy in making the plan a reality.

“Even to this day Margaret is actively involved in the work of Springhill. The Hospice staff and volunteers are so pleased that she will be given this award.”

Conservative Party Leader Ashley Dearnley said: “It is richly deserved for her vision and sheer determination to establish the hospice in our town.

This is such a vital facility for people in the greatest need and everyone living in our borough should feel indebted to Margaret for this wonderful achievement. It is only fitting that we honour her.”

Councillor Keith Swift said: “Margaret has contributed so much to the borough to make it a better place.

“Her work has been varied from being the founder member of the Citizens Advice Bureau to being a member of Social Servives Appeals Tribunals.

“She has touched the lives of thousands of people over the years and I am so pleased to see so many people supporting her and commending her on this special occasion”.

The hospice opened in 1989, and provides Specialist Palliative Care for people with life-limiting illness. In addition to services for patients, care is extended to the patients’ carers and families.

It is an independent charitable organisation and relies on voluntary contributions in order to keep the doors open.