John's cousin, Michael, was tragically diagnosed with cancer during his early 40s. Michael was a larger-than-life individual, the joker, the loud mouth, the laughter, and the joy of the family. Unfortunately, the fight went on for too long, and it was the unenviable job of the ladies and gentlemen of St. Cuthbert's Hospice to look after him in his final weeks. They did so with such grace and care that the Pearson clan will always be grateful.

St. Cuthbert's Hospice provides specialist palliative and end-of-life care to all those affected by life-limited illnesses. Only 40% of St. Cuthbert's annual costs are covered by the UK National Health Service. As such, they depend on donations and income from their retail shops to fund hospice services.