I used to be a regular contributor to this forum, but in recent years I haven't had much to say, although I have looked in from time to time. I'm going to mark my return to active duty by not saying anything about motor sport but instead to say a few words about something that is very important to me. I hope you don't mind.
My wife's funeral took place last week. She died of cancer of the liver. I think it's fair to say that her last few weeks on the planet weren't very pleasant for her.
I'm sure I'm not the only person who has known, or known of, someone who died of cancer. I've always felt sad for the person who died, and for the people left behind. But it was only a fleeting sadness. As they say, life goes on. This time it was different. It was personal.
As you can probably guess, my emotions have been very much up and down over the past few weeks, but one evening I suddenly felt very angry. It finally hit much how much I hate and detest cancer. It's a complete bastard - there is no other word for it. It took away the woman who was my wife and lover and best friend for over forty years. It was then that I decided I had to do something about it
I'm neither selfless enough nor dedicated enough to spend every waking moment in the future working towards beating cancer. After all, I've still got a life to lead and I'd like a little light relief now and then. But I made a small start by asking everyone who attended the funeral to make a donation towards cancer research.. It raised a nice little sum which will go towards doing some useful work in the future. And when my head has cleared a bit from all the recent turmoil, I'll work out some other ways I can help.
My purpose in writing this lot is to ask you, your family and friends, to make a donation to cancer research. It doesn't have to be much - even just put 5p in a collection tin. It will all help.
I want to see cancer beaten out of existence. It's only right that more of us should die peacefully and pain free at a ripe old age, rather than be taken too soon by this complete scourge on humanity. Please, everyone. do what you can.
Thank you.
Edited by ian senior, 09 November 2023 - 11:29.