Woman gets dying wish to see horse for final time
Family handoutThe family of a dying woman whose final wish was to see a horse for the last time have thanked hospital staff for the "emotional" moment.
Allison Charlton, from Widdrington, in Northumberland, had always loved animals but had a particular love for horses, her family said.
The 63-year-old spent five weeks on the palliative care ward at Wansbeck General Hospital before she died on 15 June.
When staff turned Mrs Charlton's dreams into a reality her face "lit up like a kid at Christmas", her family said.
Mrs Charlton enjoyed riding and caring for horses, along with her two sons, Jamie and John Charlton.
When staff heard that she would love to see a horse for the last time they were able to make her dream a reality.
'Dream fulfilled'
One of the health care assistants caring for the grandmother-of-four had a relative who owned a horse, called Charlie.
Teams on the ward then organised for Charlie to be brought to the hospital.
Mrs Charlton's sons said: "It was a really nice memory for us to have.
"We had horses when we were kids and you can tell her face was filled with absolute joy.
"It was emotional for us as well to see her get that last wish.
"It was something for her to hold on to and gave her a chance to fulfil her dream."
They added: "The care she received was outstanding. The staff made our mam feel happy, safe and comfortable."
Mrs Charlton was able to stroke Charlie and feed it carrots during the visit.
Avril Robinson, a staff nurse in palliative medicine, said: "When we say we will make something like this happen, we will do whatever it takes.
"As a team in palliative care, we always try to fulfil our patients' last wishes. It makes a huge difference to the patient and their families."