Dancing for Jules

For Strictly contestant Victoria, taking to the dancefloor is about much more than learning the steps. She will be dancing in memory of her husband Jules, who was cared for by Forest Holme.

Jules was diagnosed with laryngeal cancer in June 2023, aged just 54, and first received palliative care from Forest Holme at home before later being admitted to the hospice.

When Victoria thinks about their life together, it is often the little things that make her smile. Jules’ lack of tech skills, his ability to cook the perfect steak and the way he would take charge on holiday, always making sure refreshments and sun cream were at hand.

“Despite various life challenges, we always made the best of things,” says Victoria. “Jules always gave 110% at everything he did.”

The couple also shared a love of Strictly, particularly supporting contestants without a performing background. Grimsby native Kevin Clifton always had their backing, while Scott Mills’ memorable lobster routine remains a favourite.

Some of Victoria’s most treasured memories of Forest Holme are simply being able to spend time together, including DVD nights and sleepovers, knowing she could visit Jules at any time of the day or night.

Shortly after Jules was admitted, the Forest Holme team also arranged an intimate ring blessing for the couple.

“It was a lovely opportunity for us to reinforce our commitment and love for one another,” Victoria recalls. “What Forest Holme can put on in such a short space of time is incredible.”

It is the smaller acts of care that have stayed with Victoria too. Just days before Jules died, he told a member of staff that he wanted a Christmas card for her.

“They went out and bought one for him to give to me. Nothing was ever too much trouble. I will always be truly grateful for the care they gave to both Jules and myself.”

Forest Holme has remained an important part of Victoria’s life. She has accessed the hospice’s counselling service and regularly attends its Bereavement Cafés, where she has met others who have also lost their partners.

Those introductions have grown into genuine friendships, with a WhatsApp group providing informal support and opportunities to meet for coffee, walks, meals, comedy nights and concerts.

“The cafés have given me the opportunity to make friends that you didn’t know you wanted or needed,” she says.

Victoria has also found many ways to give back, from making bags and blankets for the hospice to fundraising. She completed the Longleat 10k just two days before what would have been her and Jules’ 16th wedding anniversary and has since taken part in Forest Holme’s Sunset Walk remotely while on holiday.

Now comes perhaps her biggest challenge yet.

The Strictly Extravaganza final takes place just days before what would have been the couple’s 17th wedding anniversary, making Victoria’s appearance on the dancefloor particularly poignant.

“I’m pretty sure Jules will be thinking, ‘What is she up to now?’” she laughs. “Jules always claimed to have two left feet. Sadly, we never got the opportunity to find out for certain.

“I know he would be proud of everything I have accomplished since his passing and will be cheering me on. I try to do anything I can to support Forest Holme so they can continue to do the amazing work they do.”