22 years of caring through cooking
15 Oct 2024 | View all news
Our hospice cook, Gary Nicklin, has been caring through cooking at our charity for 22 years.
He’s seen a lot of changes over that time.
Shortly after he joined us in 2002 he enjoyed meeting His Royal Highness, the Duke of Kent who was officially opening the hospice day unit.
Gary has cooked through Covid, rustling up delicious bacon butties for our staff to help improve morale.
Over the years he’s helped patients celebrate birthdays, anniversaries and other special occasions with whatever they have requested, from cakes to smoothies.
He has even created a Christmas dinner out of season to help a family create special memories with their loved one.
He regularly uses his culinary expertise to create tasty meals for people with special dietary needs.
Whether it’s breakfast, afternoon tea, or something hot at night – everyone can have a meal they enjoy.
Known for his happy demeanour, reassuring manner, and expert culinary skills Gary always receives terrific feedback.
An impressive history
During his career Gary has cooked for Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal, Ken Dodd and comedian, Nick Hancock, but he loves nothing better than cooking for our patients at the hospice.
He told us:
“I thoroughly enjoy working here, I’m most proud of cooking good quality, nutritious food for our patients. I get to meet some fascinating people.”
What people say about Gary
“Our little sister, Kimberley, loved all of the food that was prepared for her during her time in Katharine House Hospice.
“She enjoyed all the smiles and laughter with Gary and all the staff any time, day or night, whenever she felt able to eat.
“Thank you so much!!!” – Ken and Karen
“Gary is just amazing, he always went that extra mile when I had my stay with you.” – Paul
“He was incredibly patient with Stephen when he didn’t want to eat. He would suggest all manner of food just to tempt his taste buds.” – April
