'Why I choose to spend time with dying strangers'

Spending time with someone who is dying is something most of us will only have to experience maybe a handful of times in a lifetime.

For Hazel Orchard, it is a weekly occurrence.

Hazel is a hospital companion and volunteers her time offering a friendly ear to end-of-life patients.

The role involves listening, discussing challenging topics such as care plans and simply being present when family need to rest or step away.

She said although it brought her grief and sadness it had also enriched her life.

"It is very emotional, I won't dilute that in any way, shape or form," said Hazel from Cardiff.

"But to people on their journey as their body ebbs ever flowing to its final resting place is nothing other than a privilege."

Hazel, 65, began volunteering for Marie Curie in September and since then has ed 10 patients, three of whom have now died.

"I do go and sit and light a candle for them and their families," she said.

"It is important to for me to express my own grief in a way... to be able to refuel and recharge and to be able to continue to give what is needed to the patients I ."

Although Hazel is ionate about the work now, when she first heard about the opportunity on social media she was far from keen.

"My first thought was 'I can't think of anything more horrific' and I byed it," said Hazel, who is retired after a career in children's services.

"However, interestingly it never really left my mind during the ensuing week and I found myself at times thinking about it."

"I then went back to it and thought 'why not":[]}