Springhill Hospice's founder Margaret Geoghegan MBE dies aged 99

Springhill Hospice founder and president, Margaret Geoghegan MBE has passed away at the age of 99.

Margaret was pivotal in the creation of the hospice, and her determined campaign to raise funds for the building launched in 1983 culminated in the opening of Springhill Hospice in 1989.

During this time, Margaret received an MBE for her incredible services to the local community, recognising just how valuable her efforts were and the significant contribution she made to the residents across the borough of Rochdale.

Margaret remained as chair of the board of trustees of Springhill until 2013 when she retired from her position.

 

 

She dedicated so much time and care to Springhill’s patients, their loved ones and the supporters she came into contact with during this time.

She was an inspirational figure and the reason why the community of Heywood, Middleton, and Rochdale can receive such a high standard of palliative care to this day. 
 

Read more: A 'special' woman honouredPublished: 23 February 2009

Chair of the board of trustees, Lesley Mort, said: "All of us at Springhill and the people of Rochdale owe a great deal to Margaret.

"Her vision, tenacity and resilience resulted in our hospice, which has cared for thousands of residents from across the borough and beyond and their loved ones, over the last 34 years. 

"We will honour her memory at our next board meeting, and wish to offer her family our condolences at this sad time."

Councillor Neil Emmott, leader of Rochdale Borough Council; Councillor Mike Holly, Mayor of Rochdale; Councillor John Taylor, leader of the Conservative Group; Councillor Andy Kelly, leader of the Liberal Democrat Group, have also paid tribute to Margaret in a joint statement: 

“Margaret was such an inspirational person, whose dedicated service to our borough will forever be remembered. It was thanks to Margaret’s tireless campaigning that Springhill Hospice was born and, through her pioneering work, thousands of residents in our borough and beyond have received high quality support and compassionate care.

“Our thoughts and love are with Margaret’s family and many friends at this difficult time, who can take comfort that her vision has helped to create a lasting legacy across the care sector.”

“You cannot comprehend the thousands of people from so many strands of Rochdale life who have, and still do, contribute to this wonderful tapestry of care for anyone in need." – Margaret Geoghegan MBE