Scottish actress Simone Lahbib, best known for roles in Bad Girls and EastEnders, has spoken publicly about her profound grief following the death of her younger brother, Stephen, from cancer.
A Terminal Diagnosis and Rapid Loss
The 60-year-old actress revealed her brother received a terminal diagnosis in May 2024, with doctors initially indicating he might have two years to live. Tragically, Stephen's condition deteriorated rapidly, and he passed away just six months later in November 2024 at Strathcarron Hospice.
Simone is now bravely sharing her family's experience to support Strathcarron Hospice's 2026 campaign, 'What Makes Life Meaningful', which coincides with the hospice's 45th anniversary. She hopes to highlight the invaluable support provided by hospice care during the most difficult of times.
The Invaluable Support of Hospice at Home
Lahbib recounted how her elderly parents first cared for Stephen at home. As his illness progressed, he became unsteady on his feet, and the family turned to Strathcarron's Hospice at Home team for assistance.
"Strathcarron's Hospice at Home team was invaluable toward the end," Simone expressed. "They were so lovely, understanding and supportive. It was a very difficult, distressing time and we came to rely on them."
The staff provided daily help with washing and dressing and were always on call for emergencies, offering crucial support that allowed Stephen to remain at home for as long as possible.
Finding Compassion and Community in Care
When Stephen was eventually admitted to the hospice inpatient unit, Simone admitted she feared a sterile, hospital-like environment. Instead, she found a place of warmth and deep compassion.
"The staff made not only Stephen, but his family and friends feel welcome and important," she said. She believes her sociable brother even made friends during his stay. "Stephen was not only cared for at Strathcarron Hospice - he was loved," Simone stated, emphasising the personal touch that defined his care.
This kindness extended beyond Stephen's death, with hospice nurses attending his funeral—a testament, Simone noted, to the bonds formed and the depth of care provided.
Making Every Moment Count: A Brother's Legacy
In his final weeks, Stephen was determined to make every moment count. His primary focus was completing songs for his band Mama Mayhem's album with bandmate John Drummond.
His dedication bore fruit; the album, 'Hangman', was released on Spotify shortly after his passing, with physical vinyl copies also produced. "In his music he lives on," Simone said, noting that his passion for music and his loved ones defined his life.
The loss has profoundly changed Simone's outlook. "Since his death, I'm more aware of how precious and fragile life is," she continued. "Stephen wanted to make every moment count."
What Gives Life Meaning? New Research Insights
Strathcarron Hospice commissioned research as part of its campaign, uncovering what people in Scotland value most. The findings revealed that nearly six in ten Scots believe family and close relationships provide life's greatest sense of purpose, ranking higher than personal achievements or wealth.
Furthermore, in daily life, almost 60% of respondents prioritised physical and mental wellbeing, while nearly half valued independence over their career. Simple pleasures resonated most strongly, with 59% finding the most happiness in spending quality time with family, friends, and pets.
Mags McCarthy, Chief Executive of Strathcarron Hospice, said: "Meaningful connections, finding joy in the little things and making the most of life's experiences... these are the things that mean the most to people." She added that hospices play a vital role in delivering palliative care, supporting families, and alleviating pressure on NHS services.
Through sharing her heartbreak, Simone Lahbib hopes to honour her brother's memory and underscore the critical, compassionate work of hospices like Strathcarron in helping families navigate terminal illness.
