Seizing life’s opportunities: Trevor's story

Making the most of every opportunity was a lifelong principle for father-of-two Trevor Field. This led him to develop a successful career, travel the world and marry long-term partner Julia on the Ward in Pembury just days before he died. On the morning of his wedding, Trevor shared fond memories and how he was spending his last days continuing to make the most of life, thanks to help from the Hospice.

“I went from a pit village in Sheffield to working for the biggest professional services firms in the world. I’m not saying that to boast, it just shows what you can do if you give things a go. I was the first person in my family to get a degree. When chances have sprung up, I’ve seized each opportunity. I grew up where people had difficulty putting food on the table. I was lucky because I had a lovely family and a privileged upbringing. People often equate that with great money; I equate it with values, being humble and making sure everyone is looked after.

Nobody had any qualifications in my family. I was only able to go to grammar school because my family deprived themselves to afford the uniform and things I needed so I had the chance to improve myself.

Lucky breaks

I’ve had lucky breaks. The college where I was studying asked if I’d considered teaching. I took the opportunity and became senior lecturer. During my career, I studied for an MBA and worked in different parts of the country. I ended up working for KPMG, that’s where Julia and I met.

I’m marrying Julia this afternoon, it’s something we should have done a long time ago but now time is of the essence. We are delighted the Hospice’s team could do this for us at such short notice!

Nothing is too much trouble

I knew nothing about the Hospice before. Such caring, supportive people looking after you. I had a biopsy on my neck. It turns out there’s cancer in the lymph nodes; that was a real shock. But they have my pain under control and are doing everything they possibly can, nothing is too much trouble.

Ecstatic to get married

I’m ecstatic to get married because it acknowledges the relationship that Julia and I have. It has been a brilliant one in terms of the life we lead, the travelling we’ve done. America, China, Iceland, Costa Rica. All these places stick in our minds. I’ve been lucky, Julia is an incredible travel companion. Give us 10 minutes to pack, we will go!

I always say to people to take a chance to do something different, even if it is out of your comfort zone.”