Michael Spencer was a cherished client of Unique Care who lived at home with his wife Valerie and their beloved dog Frankie. Diagnosed with multiple myeloma and suffering from anxiety, Michael faced many challenges, including reduced mobility and loss of confidence. We supported Michael three times a week, encouraging gentle exercise, companionship, and social engagement.
Despite his anxiety, Michael began to thrive with routine outings – from walking through Whitlings Fields, to enjoying the roses at Regent’s Park, to tea at Daisy’s in Pinner, Kenwood House, and Lauderdale House. We also accompanied him to every medical appointment, providing both practical and emotional support. Michael enjoyed singing for memory at Masorti Synagogue with Lu’s group, where he even played the keyboard, something that brought him joy and connection.
With encouragement and creative solutions – such as laminating detailed instructions for bus routes – Michael became more independent and felt confident travelling to meet his brother or friends. He loved football, especially Tottenham matches, music, and sharing stories.
After his passing, Unique Care worked with MP Dan Tomlinson and the local council to secure a memorial bench in Whitlings Fields, where Michael used to walk. The bench ceremony, including a poem written in his honour, will mark the lasting impact of a life well cared for. We also have a touching video of Michael sharing how he felt supported by our team – a legacy we are proud to hold.
Michael absolutely loved attending Singing for the Memory at the Masorti Synagogue in St Albans, run so warmly by Lu and her dedicated team of volunteers. This wasn’t just a singing group it was a space filled with heart, laughter, and connection.
He especially enjoyed the chance to sing solo, often met with cheers and encouragement from the group. One of the volunteers, John, who played the keyboard, always made a special fuss of Michael — even inviting him to have a go on the keys, which lit him up with pride.
But what made the biggest difference was the friendships. His bond with Shirley, in particular, brought him joy and companionship that meant the world. This group gave Michael a true sense of belonging — a place where he felt valued, included, and deeply connected.
Michael absolutely loved attending Singing for the Memory at the Masorti Synagogue in St Albans, run so warmly by Lu and her dedicated team of volunteers. This wasn’t just a singing group it was a space filled with heart, laughter, and connection.
He especially enjoyed the chance to sing solo, often met with cheers and encouragement from the group. One of the volunteers, John, who played the keyboard, always made a special fuss of Michael — even inviting him to have a go on the keys, which lit him up with pride.
But what made the biggest difference was the friendships. His bond with Shirley, in particular, brought him joy and companionship that meant the world. This group gave Michael a true sense of belonging — a place where he felt valued, included, and deeply connected.
“I have happy feet now”
Reflexology and complementary therapies at Chai Cancer Care have had a profound impact on many of our clients, including Michael.
Michael especially loved the Chanukah parties as part of his Jewish identity especially listening to Jonny Turgel being Jewish – singing dancing eating donuts all being together to forget out their cancer – these events are truly uplifting making friendships .
These supportive treatments provide comfort, relief, and a sense of wellbeing during challenging times. We’re proud to showcase how meaningful these services have been in the lives of those we care for.
A Resting Place along the way (in memory of Michael, 1947-2025
Through Barnet’s fields, so wide and still,
Michael walked with quiet will.
With Frankie close and steps grown slow
These paths became the way he’d go.
Among the wildflowers, soft and sweet,
He found a peace no ward could meet
These walks, not chemo, felt like care
The breeze, the sky the open air
Yet often came the need to stay,
To pause the catch the breath of day
No bench in sight, no place to land
Just Frankies lead held in his hand
Unique Care walked beside him too
Nine years of journeys strong and true
We miss his smile, chats his thoughtful way
His humour brightening many a day
So let this bench be more than wood
Let it serve the common Good
A resting spot for all who roam
For those who walk or feel far from home
For elders, neighbours, or those Unwell
Let this be where the heart can dwell
To watch the birds, the grass, the sky
To sit, to breathe, to wonder why
Now here, a seat – both firm and kind
To rest the body, ease the mind
For Michael loved those who cared
His wife Valerie who still walks there
A place for Frankies paws to pause,
For Valerie to stop take cause
A seat to share, a space to lend
A Gift from Michael, dog and friend
