Read Shaz’s blog about Writing a Swan Song and what it means to her to have her own CD.
Shaz Bolton was signposted to The Swan Swan Song Project by Overgate Hospice. She worked with Ben Buddy Slack and Holly Taymar to write and record her song “The Hardest Climb”
Shaz and Bracken collecting their Cds from The Swan Song Studio.
“It’s not often I’m lost for words but; being part of The Swan Song Project has really blown my mind!
When you hear that you have an incurable disease that will lead to a terminal diagnosis, your World crumbles apart.
Over the past year I’ve worked with both Staff & Volunteers at Overgate Hospice, on many wonderful projects, including writing a Poem.
In turn, this led to One of The Team reaching out to Ben, who then introduced me to the idea of writing a Swan Song. I’ve tried to be as open as possible to the many things offered to me, and thought; why not?
Working alongside Ben, Holly and The Team brought me so much joy; it was a fun, positive, uplifting experience.
So, I now have my very own CD; how surreal is that!?
This song, my very own lyrics, titled ‘The Hardest Climb’ is so meaningful.
When you take a listen, you will understand why!
It brings Hope and Joy, Love, Laughter and Tears.
It’s about some of the most important things I’ve done; some of the most wonderful people I’ve been fortunate to meet, and includes some of the most incredibly, beautiful places I’ve had the chance to visit in my short life!
It truly is a beautiful, lasting legacy, for Richard, Bracken, Hannah, Nathan and my Gorgeous Grandchildren, Leah, Henry, Eloise and Oscar!
It has been a real Privilege to be able to share this with you all, please take a listen!
Every Sunrise
Every Sunset”
Shaz Bolton
12/6/2025
Listen to “The Hardest Climb” below
Interested in writing a song with us?
Bracken working hard in The Swan Song Studio.
Lyrics
Smiley Filey brings me joy,
The warmth of the sun, the sound of the sea,
Smiling faces playing on the beach,
These memories are so special to me,
Rookery Nook, A place I love,
Neighbours chatting watching sunsets
Swallows nesting, Rooks are roosting
These memories I’ll never forget
Chorus:
I always walk with hope by my side,
It’;s strength has always been my guide,
So many memories that I’ll never forget,
From every sunrise to every sunset,
So let’s enjoy our precious time,
The best view always comes after the hardest climb,
Bracken my friend, my constant companion,
Loves tummy tickles curled up on my knee
From snuggles on my bed to walks in the woods
his gaze tells me where he wants to be
Pen Y Ghent, My favourite peak,
Walk, Scramble, Run and Climb,
Supporting charities close to my heart,
Photos on the trig, memories of mine
Lake District, The place to be,
Friars Cragg, Keswick and Buttermere,
From Hope. Park to a bench with a view,
Catbells Terrace is so clear,
Overgate, My caring family,
Raising funds is what we do,
It’s the gift that keeps on giving,
Because we can care, they can too.
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