As Vicky's brother (Diarmid, special request blogger!) I have been given the task of making sense of the last few days. As a doctor myself by training, it can be difficult to separate the medical facts from the emotional response.
Readers of Martin's last blog will know that the news was very bad last week. During the holiday to Spain Vicky became very ill very quickly and the scan on her return showed that the cancer had spread to the lining of the brain and the spinal cord. This is not only very difficult to treat effectively but causes extremely unpleasant symptoms of awful headaches, neck stiffness and vomiting. It's really a low grade meningitis.
The priority for Vicky has therefore been to reduce inflammation and swelling around the brain and relieve her headaches and sickness. It has taken some time to really get this under control, with a terrible up and down 2 or 3 days, during which her immediate family (Joan, Anna, myself and my wife Kerstin and my kids) have travelled to be with her, but with injections of steroids, strong painkillers and anti-sickness drugs, she is now alternating between relaxed sleep and times of alertness, when she is her usual funny and strong-willed self, generally trying to get the family organised!
This morning Vicky was moved with her consent to St Peter's Hospice, where the surroundings are much more relaxed than the Oncology Unit and the focus is very much on maximising the pleasure Vicky and her family can get from what are almost certain to be her last few days or weeks.
She seems to be wonderfully calm and concerned more for her family and friends than herself, dispensing hugs to her nephew and niece (Helen and Andrew), among others today. Iona seems to be understanding and participating in her own way what is going on, and her smiling and laughter with her cousins has been a great comfort to us all.
Over the last few days we owe many thanks to many people (particularly but not exclusively!) Jackie, Hannah, Shane and particularly from me and Andrew, Skye the cat.
Thanks for all of your very kind messages. As ever we are relaying them to Vicky.
Diarmid X
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82 comments:
Please give Vicky a huge hug from both Andrew & I and tell her that we love her.
Sarah xxx
Dearest Vicky
There is a chain of buses around the world - bumper to bumper. The passengers are like sardines on these buses - and the reason for this - is you. We have been, from the start,with you on every step of your journey. The highs and lows have been immense for you. There have been parts of the journey that this old bus never thought would ever be possible and as it climbed each mountain - another one appeared. This in itself has been something very difficult for you to accept - but you have dealt with every mountain with such amazing courage.You have shown each and everyone of us how much strength you have and tackled these mountains with your logical approach,good humour, informative blogs, and an inner calm that has inspired so many people. How can we ever thank you for these wonderful gifts that you have shared with us all. We are so lucky to have met you and have you as a friend, and our greatest wish for you now is peace and comfort with Martin, Iona and your family surrounding you with love.
We too send so much love,
Your friends in the north
Muir and Rod xxx
Dear Dear Friend,
I wish I was closer. All I want to do is give you a huge hug and see your smile. You're great Vicky. I'm glad we had a little chat on Sunday. Please try to take care of yourself now and stop worrying about everyone else. I hope that you are feeling more comfortable at St.Peter's and that the doctors are managing to help you with your sickness and headaches.
I know Martin will be bringing you all our messages - so many ! You're such a loved person. I'm proud to be your friend.
I just want to say hello to Martin, Iona, Joan and the rest of the Weir gang. Look after my friend and one of you give her a hug from me.
Will write again soon.
Sarah B.(Milano)
Dear Vicky, Martin, Iona and indeed all of your hugely supportive family,
We would like to send all our love and thoughts to you at this time. Through your consistent blogging (with special guests!) you have brought light and understanding to a tough situation. Vicky, as always you're a true inspiration to us, only someone so strong as yourself could remain so positive throughout your journey.
Love and BIG BIG hugs,
Lou & Hels xxx
Thank you Diarmid for what must have been a difficult post to write. Please please pass on all our love and huge hugs from Claire, Vladi, Paul, Julien, Innes, Margery & Gerald.
Hi Diarmid,
Thank you so much for keeping us all updated and please give Vicky an extra big hug from me - we are all thinking of you.
Danielle C x
Please give Vicky a huge hug from us both and tell her just how special she is to us all, and indeed a hug from little Izzie. I will email a picture of our new little girl to Vicky's email address incase you wish to print it off and take it to show Vicky.
You are an amazing family who I believe have been an inspiration to us all, the cushion of love and warmth that surrounds you grows stronger everyday, and I know will continue to do so.
Thank you for allowing us to be on this journey with you all, and lets hope the suspension on this well worn bus allows the journey to continue as comfortably as possible.
Always love
Zoe, Mat and Izzie
Dear friend, it was so lovely to see you at the weekend and I hope our visit didn't tire you out too much. Our love to you all and your family. Thinking of you as always, Lucy Nash and family x
Thankyou for keeping us updated at such a hard time-It's good to hear you are all together with Vicky and she is still organising you! Send her our love( although we have failed to meet up these last few years since we left Bristol I have kept in touch through Jacqui and Shane) Thinking of you all-love and hugs Vicky(Foster) Laurence,Lucia and Oscar xxx
Dearest Vicky
Since we met in 2000 life hasn't always been smooth sailing (sorry!) but you have always showed amazing fortitude when things didn't quite go to plan. However none of us could have envisaged how much courage and strength you were going to need over the past year and I am so pleased that you have had Martin by your side during this very bumpy ride. I am only sorry that the only time I met him was at my wedding.
I feel so very lucky to have met you whilst on Bristol Clipper and feel priviliged to be one of your friends - you are one in a million. I will miss you and your positive approach to life very much.
My thoughts are with you and your family.
With so much love
Lizzie xx
Death is but crossing the world, as friends do the seas; they live in one another still. For they must needs be present, that love and live in that which is omnipresent. In this divine glass they see face to face; and their converse is free, as well as pure. This is the comfort of friends, that though they may be said to die, yet their friendship and society are, in the best sense, ever present, because immortal.
William Penn, More Fruits of Solitude
Dear Vicky- I am lost for words. I just want to let you know what a wonderful special person you are.I feel very lucky to have got to know you (even though we both admitted we didnt really like each other at the start) My memories of Lyon and Bristol are still fresh, even if they were about 100 years ago-and I still always smile when I think of all our get-togethers after that, unsually to commiserate over some or other man-related disaster.. luckily it didnt put you off and you have the man of your dreams with you now.
I wish you all the love and strength in the world. You have touched so many people with the courage you have shown in sharing this journey with us..thankyou for being you.
Lots of love
Vanessa, Paul, Isabella and Alessandra
xxx
“I am standing upon the seashore.
A ship at my side spreads her white
sails to the morning breeze and starts for the blue ocean.
She is an object of beauty and strength.
I stand and watch her until at length she hangs like a speck of white cloud just where the sea and sky come to mingle with each other.
Then, someone at my side says;
"There, she is gone!"
"Gone where?"
Gone from my sight. That is all.
She is just as large in mast and hull and spar as she was when she left my side and she is just as able to bear her load of living freight to her destined port.
Her diminished size is in me, not in her.
And just at the moment when someone
at my side says, "There, she is gone!"
There are other eyes watching her coming, and other voices ready to take up the glad
shout; "Here she comes!"
Sail well our beautiful girl x
(But you're doing mother watch tomorrow and the heads need fixing!)
Dear Vicky, Martin and Iona,
I can't even try and follow the amazing entry by the previous blogger (Ian D), but would like to say that as always you are in my thoughts. I hope that you and your amazingly courageous family are finding comfort in your time together. As with all the many passengers on this bus, huge hugs from me. Love as always, Karen xx
Dearest Vicky,
Thinking of you constantly and sending you lots of love from a sunny New York (Sue Shapiro sends you her love and Nick and Janet at Travel Trade magazine are thinking of you also).
What can I say except to reiterate on what others have said - you are a really lovely friend and with your positive attitude to life, are an inspiration to us all. This past year has tested your strength to extremes and everyone has the utmost admiration for you as well as a huge amount of love for you.
Your positive attitude and strength of character is giving everyone (least of all your family) a huge amount of strength and I'm sure their amazing strength is also helping you. I hope the relief from these awful symptoms allow you more happy times with the family.
Sending you loads of love, and a huge hug from
Judy xxx and from Steve xxx and Ellie xxx back in Devon too
Diarmid
Thank you for updating us with such sad news, everyone really appreciates it.
Vicky, I am so sorry you are so ill, you are so lovely, and especially so when my father was ill last year, a real tower of strength, and practical support.
Laura reassures me Iona is fine at school with lots of friends, and welcome here whenever Martin wants a break.
I can't properly express any more,
All our love
Suzi Luke Laura Helena Felix xxxxx
Dearest Vicky,
We are thinking of you constantly at this time and hope you are comfortable without pain. sending you lots of love and hugs xxxx Jenny, Mat, Millie and Amber xxxx
Loving you lots as always,
Mic
XX
Dear Vicky
I imagine the comments you have been getting here are just the tip of the iceberg. Many people have been following your journey but have remained silent, me being one of them.
Your resilience, positive attitude, sunny personality and honesty have shone through, through out this, and it seems to me in having Martin and your surrounding family in your life, you have been blessed.
Somewhere, I tried to find it, I have a picture of the mini Clipper 2000 reunion we had with Karen, Jane and Caroline in Bristol in 2001. The race was still ongoing and I remember an afternoon of laughter and of course gossip!
Smiling is how I have always remembered you when your name has come up in conversation since then, and from the blog I see no reason to change that now.
Take it easy my friend.
Jax (Plymouth Clipper)
Dearest Vicky
We are still rooting for you so so much and sending lots of love to you and all your family, especially Martin and Iona.
Again big, big thanks to Diarmid for the 'blog-fix' -you will probably have no idea how great it is for people like me to be able to come here and catch up without having to pester anyone with emails and phone calls etc.
We are all so sorry to hear the news you are more poorly Vicky. I can picture you in the hospice though - make the most of those jacuzzi baths and the drop-in aromatherapist lady if you possibly have the strength for it.
So lovely to see you happy and smiling in Cotham Gardens that wonderfully sunny afternoon last month. The tomato sauce never did quite come out of Elo's white top!!
Lots and lots of everything.
Much love
Waf Dan Elo & Imo
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Vicky,
Through seven wonderful years at work together (plus 3 maternity leaves between us, clipper trips, the occassional Euro conference and a couple of US trips to boot), I still half expect to see you poke your head round the door or call for an impromptu post room conference. You are quite simply brilliant.
And to Martin, Iona, Joan and all the family - I don't need to tell you how special Vicky is, but I do need to tell you all how special you are. Please give her a huge hug and tell her how much we love her.
Kathryn, Gerry, Maya and Lara xxxxxxxx
Vicky
Such a special person you are to so many people, especially my sister Margot, always thought and will always think you together as sisters.
Vicky stay strong for you.
I went for a walk at lunchtime into the Botanics today and thought so much of you, I think you would have loved the walk, I was crunching across the leaves. A truly beautiful day, just reminds me of you a beautiful person, especially inside.
Vicky we send you so much love to you and your family, Jenny,Scott, Corey and Kerry-Anne and a huge big HUG. XXXX
Thanks Diarmid for adding to the blog what must have been a very difficult message to write.
Dear Vicky, I feel so lucky to have known you and spent so many happy times with you when we were younger and dafter. I can't help but smile at some of the silly things we got up to. You have always been full of fun and joy. Thank you for being my friend and sharing part of your life with me.
Lots of love and a very big hug,
Marina xxx
Dear Vicky
So sad to hear the latest news. My main, fervent, wish is that you are comfortable and able to enjoy this special time with your family and draw comfort from their support and love. I feel privileged to know you, and I have always enjoyed our chats in the playground, park or the odd night out with the school Mums. Your fortitude, courage and humour are an enduring inspiration for us all. One of your real gifts is your concern and interest in other people, remembering even little things (a concern, an important event) and making them feel valued. In turn, I see how valued and cherished you are as a partner, daughter, mother, friend, boss, employee. I'm so glad I've got to know you even a bit!
Thinking so much of you, and also Martin, Iona and the rest of your family.
Lots of love from Rachael.
Dearest Vicky
Like Sarah, I wish I wasn't so far away and could give you a big hug. I have been thinking of you every day, and the person I always see is the bright, happy, vivacious, beautiful Vicky, who is so kind and interested in everyone around her.
I am so pleased we had such lovely times together this year in Bristol, Rovinj and Edinburgh and I got to meet the fantastic Martin and see your gorgeous daughter Iona in action!
Vicky, it has been said by everyone, but I will say it again - you are an inspiration and have coped with this dreadful disease with such courage and dignity.
I really hope that you are feeling comfortable in St Peter's and know you will be surrounded by so much love. Here is a bus-load more from me, Andy and my family.
Vicky, you are one in a million and a very dear friend.
Love always
Katie xxx
Dearest Vicky
We are sending our love airmail and hope the hug wraps its arms very tightly around you when it gets there.
We're pleased you're in a much more comfortable place and that you have all your family with you. We are a small part of the hundreds of others thinking constantly of you all just now, and remembering you all in our prayers.
Whilst thinking about you so much of late I have remembering all those happy times on maternity leave with the babies. (The bloggers are all right when they describe you smiling!)Remember the time you babysat Max and he cried and cried? I'll never forget coming home seeing you at the top of the stairs. You'd walked him up and down for hours so we could stay out longer. Always making sure others are ok! Especially as you had Iona with you and were walking 2 of them up and down!!
Thanks to your family for keeping us all updated, we appreciate it.
Lots of love to you all,
Ali, Rik, Max and Connor xxxx
Dearest Vicky,
Thinking of you and yours always.
Love
Allison, Gobi, Holly, Jessica and Anneli xxx
I'm somewhat lost for words - things are moving so quickly now - it's unthinkeable. Thinking of you all and sending hugs to Vicky, Martin and Iona. Vicky - I won't try to repeat the many wonderful things people have written but it has been such a pleasure to have known you and have you as part of the Yellow Room crowd. You will be so missed at our nights out and in the playground - always so vibrant and positive. You have clearly touched many lives in many ways and will be leaving behind a strong legacy. I wish you comfort and the warmth of your loved ones at this sad, sad time.
Much love
Diana, Matt, Sam and Daisy
xxxx
Sail on beautiful Vicky. Your strength, beauty and humour leaves it's mark on the world and all of us bloggers. It's such a privilege to know you and also to get to know the amazing people around you through the blog. You are such a bright, bright star. You will always shine in our hearts. Big, big hug. We love you. Angie, Jon and Liam xxx
Not sure what to say really, so I'm just sending a gigantic hug instead. Em x
Vicky,
The poem below has been on my mind all of this week - I learnt it as a child - but it has only come back to me now - don't know why but I feel calm and peaceful when I recall it - I hope you like it. All my love Trish. X
William Butler Yeats. 1865–
44. The Lake Isle of Innisfree
I WILL arise and go now, and go to Innisfree,
And a small cabin build there, of clay and wattles made;
Nine bean rows will I have there, a hive for the honey bee,
And live alone in the bee-loud glade.
And I shall have some peace there, for peace comes dropping slow,
Dropping from the veils of the morning to where the cricket sings;
There midnight's all a glimmer, and noon a purple glow,
And evening full of the linnet's wings.
I will arise and go now, for always night and day
I hear lake water lapping with low sounds by the shore;
While I stand on the roadway, or on the pavements gray,
I hear it in the deep heart's core.
Dearest Vicky,
God bless you and all your wonderful precious family.
Your strength, courage and determination throughout this turbulent journey have been truly humbling and uplifting. You continue to be an inspiration to us all.
Lots of love and hugs
Jayne , Tony ,Anna and Charles.xxxx
Dear Dear Vicky, you're amazing. Thank you for your friendship and support for myself, Ellie and Oscar over the years. You're insightful, kind, creative, funny; full of sound advice and useful contacts (including consultants at a time when we were desperate). You're a great writer with a nose for spotting errant apostrophes. You make things happen and it's a pleasure and privilege to be your friend.
This blog is so typical of you - you've created a symbol so powerful and apt that has helped all of us to share the journey and take strength from each others messages.
Ellie wants to write her own message tomorrow and send you a picture (via email). She's well at the moment and is tonight practising her violin for a school concert. Definite progress!
Here's a poem for you, Martin, Iona and all your family for now or perhaps the future
I wish you -
to receive the sun
a worn pebble in your pocket
a cliff top wind
for your arms to be filled
with love Grace x
Dear Vicky,
It's so humbling to read all your entries and the responses from your friends and family. Catherine said you were still being so considerate about other people when she visited you last weekend-you are amazing!
Love to you all
Carole x
Dearest Vicky
I have been a silent passenger on this bus from the beginning, but always following your journey. I've never met you, but I feel close to you and can relate to some of the things you have been through. I've laughed, cried and screamed with you. I admire the strength, courage and determination you have shown through this bumpy ride. May this last mountain be pain-free and full of peace. You are an inspiration to all the people that have been on this bus and you are surrounded by so much love. A huge hug and much love is now being sent to you all from Melbourne (Oz).The whole world wrapped around you, keeping you warm.
Vicky, Martin, Iona and all your family, you are in our thoughts and in our prayers.
Lots of love, Frances, Peter, Matthew and Stephen Haynes.xxxx
Dear Vicky, Martin and Iona
I have never met you before but I have heard a lot about you and have read your blogs (and occasionally left you messages). I wish you all the best with your family during this difficult time. Vicky you are a strong woman and your fight with this illness will give Iona the strength to develop into a strong woman. You are and will always be in my thoughts.
Selin (Canada)
dear Martin and Vicky
boss, im lost for words, but thinking of you both and praying hard.
Grant.xxx
Dear Vicky
I am very late getting on this bus, but I wanted to say how much I enjoyed your company on 'Bristol'. Those lovely star strewn nights out on the ocean, talking about anything and everything. You are such a lovely person who has enriched the lives of everyone around you.
A big hug from Harry XX
Thanks for keeping us up to date during what must be a really difficult time for you all. Please send Vicky and Martin my love.
Ruth W
Hi Vicky
So sorry to hear the latest news - we're thinking about you all the time. Take care and lots of love from us all - Andy, Miche, Max and Issy
PS. Martin - I do have a couple of contacts in the letting business so if Joan if still looking, give me a call 07976 735503.
Dear Vicky
It has always felt too poignant and painful to dwell on thoughts about Iona but I'm sure I'm joined by every one of the school Mums and Dads in reassuring you that we will all be watching out for and taking extra special care of your beautiful little girl. She will not be short of friends to play with or of grown ups who will want to support Martin and your family in easing her transition into what will be a different life. Her loss will be immense but she will have such lovely memories of her Mummy and will continue to be cherished by the people around her. You know as well, that we will continue to be there for Martin - such an absolute rock - such a lovely, thoughtful guy.
Continuing to think of you and hope for a calm, peaceful transition to wherever the journey takes you
Diana
xxx
Dear Vicky,
I'm really lost for words. I'm arriving in Bristol tonight and I was really looking forward to seeing you. But with all the developments I don't think this will happen. I'm sending you all my love and I'll be thinking of you!
Sanne, xx
My dearest Vicky, I tell so many of my other friends about you, not just over this past year but I’ve always talked about you because you have been such inspiration. Someone real and down to earth yet brilliant in so many ways that all around people are in awe of you and love you so dearly. You make the world special just by being you.
I'm so gland that you have an incredible partner in Martin and the most supportive and loving family one could ask for and I hope this gives you the comfort that you can leave this world knowing your little girl will have the best life possible.
I don’t believe you have regrets, I hope you don’t. You have always lived life to the full and unselfishly, your spirit will live on.
All my love Jo xx
We have pondered for a day - what do we say? What can we say? What is the ‘right’ thing to say? We still don’t know, but we can try. We didn’t have the gift of knowing you well, but what we know we love, we remember laughing and smiling, we’d have liked to have known you better. You have taught us bravery and courage, some people live twice as long and only achieve half as much as you. Some people come into our lives and then quickly go, others leave footprints on our hearts and we are never the same. Thank you and your family for keeping us up to date. Thank you for being such a beautiful person and thank you for letting us be part of your journey.
With all our love, Paul and Bella De La Haye.xxxx
dear Vicky
I don't know what to say but I'm thinking of you and Iona. You are still a shining star
lots of love
ellie
xXx
Please give Vicky a huge (but gentle) hug from us as we are thinking of you all almost constantly. with all our love to a very special person,
Helen and Mark XXX
Sending lots of love to you Vicky. You are in my thoughts all the time.
Love
Nicola xx
Dear Vicky
I haven't been on the bus for a long time and it was a shock to read the news.You have been an inspiration to so many people.I will always remember that big smile on Bristol which always brightened up the day or night whichever watch I was lucky enough to share with you.
Martin you are a rock............
Give Vicky a big hug from both Sarah and myself.
Bish xxxx
Dearest Vicky, thinking of you SO MUCH up here in Scotland. You are amazing in your humour and unselfishness, a total inspiration. I treasure the memories of our Yellow Room Mum nights out and just want to send you a massive hug!
with love, Amanda
Dearest Vicky,
I'm so glad we met at our ante-natal classes. You really are one in a million and every time we've met, I've been uplifted by your positivity.
I'm thinking of you all the time now and hoping you can find peace.
All my love,
Catherine.xxx
Your long and often successful struggle has really put life in perspective for the rest of us. I am only sorry that I haven’t been able to see you since you have been ill but I have been with you every day in my heart and every prayer has been for you and your family. Your ever present family and friends are a true reflection of how wonderful you are and how much we all think about you. My only wish now is that comfortable (sorry doctor speak) and enjoying those closest to you.
Lots of love Jim (and Scot who has known you from pictures and regular updates)
To Vicky
From all of us in Vancouver (some who you have never met) we are thinking about you LOTS
Love
Ross
Dear Vicky
I dreamt last night of the first time I met you many years ago in London whilst I was with Helen.
Everything was so clear it was almost like yesterday.
You truly are a very special person and the strength that you have shown is beyond anything that I and many others have ever seen before.
You are so lucky to have met someone special like Martin and to have such a beautiful daughter like Iona.
Thank you to all your family for helping keep us all in touch during this difficult time.
All my love, Tracey x x x
Dearest Vicky,
You are truely amazing. I text you last night and when you didn't reply, I feared something awful had happened. Reading your blog first thing this morning brought home the truth of all these recent occurances.
I just wanted to let you know that I always refer to you as both my friend and my first mentor in life. You probably don't know this but you really inspired me. Working with you in my first proper job, I thought you were amazing (clearly I still do). Hearing about VSO and then seeing you set off on your clipper voyage, I thought god this is someone who gets the most out of life. You have lived your life more than most people ever do so please feel fulfilled, happy and content with yourself and all around you.
Ten years ago you started as an inspiration for me and you continue this with strength today. Be warm, peacful and smiling inside. We are all blessed to know you.
Lots of love
Beccy B xxxx
I'm not dure if my first comment got saved.
Dearest Vicky,
You are truely amazing. I text you last night and when you didn't reply, I feared something awful had happened. Reading your blog first thing this morning brought home the truth of all these recent occurances.
I just wanted to let you know that I always refer to you as both my friend and my first mentor in life. You probably don't know this but you really inspired me. Working with you in my first proper job, I thought you were amazing (clearly I still do). Hearing about VSO and then seeing you set off on your clipper voyage, I thought god this is someone who gets the most out of life. You have lived your life more than most people ever do so please feel fulfilled, happy and content with yourself and all around you.
Ten years ago you started as an inspiration for me and you continue this with strength today. Be warm, peacful and smiling inside. We are all blessed to know you.
Lots of love
Beccy B xxxx
Dear Vicky
We didn't see each other so much in recent years but I have very fond memories of evenings on the beach with yourself, John and Margot and other friends in France.
I've only come across your blog in the last few days and it reads bitter sweet but with a core of strength.
I'd just like you to know that there are a couple more hands reaching out across the ether to give you a few more drops of support.
Love Gez, Clare, Patrick, Skye and Edward.
There are so many people out there whose lives you have touched, Vicky, and your strength, courage, humour, optimism, thoughtfulness, vivacity - the list is endless! - over the last year are humbling and truly an inspiration to us all. When I think of you, I see your cheery smile and hear your lively chatter and above all your interest in everyone around you.
I’m so glad we managed to meet up more frequently over the last few years and have special memories of our gossip-filled, catching-up weekend in Dublin last spring!
I hope that in the hospice, with the support of your family and friends who love you so much, you are comfortable and that you still have that smile.
Thinking of you always and sending you love also from Rick and my mum, Doreen, in Edinburgh. Look forward to seeing you tomorrow.
All my love,
Gill x
Dear Vicky
Two incidents from memory. The first, a man-overboard drill. You immediately volunteered to jump over the side. And when we picked you out of the water, cold but exhilarated, you sat there, buzzing, telling us how it felt, how we might next time do better, until we finally - finally - persuaded you to go below, change into dry clothes. The second, a storm just outside Cuba. After two hours of frantic heaving on sail and rope, everyone soaked, exhausted, you said to us all, THAT was what it was all about, THAT was real sailing.
And that was also what was so special, your ability to grab the moment, to experience life to the full. And to enable the rest of us to do the same.
I am so sorry to be adding my piece so late. I have been out of the loop for too long, to my shame, but those memories will surely never fade.
Very best wishes to you and your loved ones,
Alan
Dearest Vicky,
We have a series of images in our minds. A bouncy, cheerful, gorgeous girl striding down a pontoon, bag slung over her shoulder. A grinning, rain-soaked sailor, wrapped to the nines in oilies, holding a bucket into which James is being sick. A mother at home in Bristol, beaming with pride as she shows off her beautiful baby girl. A warm and caring friend with an irrepressible smile and sense of fun. And finally, a woman facing her last challenge with extraordinary courage. This is our memory and it shall remain undimmed.
Last night, I (James) bumped into RKJ on a train and we talked of you and of illness and of loss. He sends you all his love.
We love you, we miss you, we wish you all the peace in the world. You, Martin and Iona have our love, our prayers and place forever in our hearts.
All our love, James, Cath, Ellen and Alexander xx
Dear Vicky, Rachel has been keeping us in touch and now we have read your blog. What a journey you have had, and borne with such terrific courage.Thank you for for that courage and inspiration and for helping everyone so much. We are thinking of you all so much and send our love to you, and to Martin and Iona, who we have never met and to Joan, Diarmid and Anna
Ruth and Fergus in Perth
Emma has told us of her very special time with you all. We do feel very close to you and our love goes out to the whole family ,Thinking of you a great deal......Edinburgh just feels a footstep away.
Jim and Jennifer.
Dear Ms Weir,
You have been one of our best customers and we are so sorry to hear your news. Your situation was raised at our most recent board meeting. Whilst the severe revenue loss was, we admit, the initial concern, we all agreed that our organisation loses much more.
As so many have mentioned, your concern for others is amazing and we gasp at your dedication in promoting Fat Face so enthusiastically throughout your difficult journey.
We can tell from the pictures on your blog and the many tributes to your personality that we have really missed a trick, never featuring you in our advertising campaigns. You are obviously the embodiment of our brand and we have launched an internal investigation to understand how the Marketing team could have overlooked such an opportunity.
We send you our kindest regards together with endless supplies of our merchandise for all your family, friends and, of course, your beautiful daughter Iona.
Yours sincerely,
The Directors and Staff of Fat Face UK
....OK, so it’s not actually from the Directors of Fat Face, but I am sure it’s what they’d say if they were on this bus. Where are they, anyway? In some taxi, no doubt. These corporate types are all the same.
( PS. I hope this doesn’t seem flippant.. I wanted to make you smile, Vicky. So much of what we are all feeling has already been expressed more eloquently and by those much closer to you. Hoping St Peter's holds you tightly and comfortably for a long time yet. Lots of love, H, Q & O )
Hi Vicky,
We have just got back from our two weeks shop till you drop in Jo-burg, and miraculously have power. Spent all day yesterday cleaning and re-arranging my pantry that is more like a mini supermarket these days. Buying food here is a huge challenge, so not only did I have to get 6 months supply of chocolate and olives but also flour, cooking oil...etc etc....we were loaded but still flew through the border thanks to my clever packing! Hwange Power station has been broken for the last couple of months so power has only been from about 11pm to 4am not my best time of the day to be in the office, so haven't been! Its back on track thanks to some money from Namibia though now we just worry everytime it rains or gets windy that our power lines will just fall down anyway! The first email in my rather full box was was one from Ian with your latest news so not done any work yet while I got up to date on the blog. Am obviously shocked and upset.
Zim still looks the same as when you were last here really. So I am sending you some sunshine and asking you to remember all your happy times here. Being here makes me think of you and the others probably far more than you think of us, I miss you being here everytime I go to Harare or pass the Nyanga turn off - really must take Nick there -can you believe he has never been. I will give him the full tourist tour on your behalf!
Lots of Love,
Sarah
xxxxx
Dear Vicky,
The last time I saw you was at John's 40th birthday party. I also met Martin that night and I was so pleased that you had met someone who you were obviously so happy with. We all had such fun that evening. I also have very fond memories of the holidays we shared at John's brothers house in France. We first met 20 years ago when you and Margot were returning to Edinburgh after travelling in Australia. Over the years Margot has always kept me in touch with what has been happening in your life.
You are a beautiful, strong woman Vicky and your courage and dignity are a tremendous legacy to others. Iona will most certainly have inherited these characteristics from you.
I am thinking of you, Martin and Iona all the time.
Lots of love,
Clare and Ruby (7) XX
Vicks, It was a special time when I came over last week, even though you were sleeping. I was afraid that we would wake you but you slept peacefully while Emma, Martin and I chatted for a few hours about treasured memories and times we've had with you. I love you so very much. I'm praying for you and all your family as are others from my church. Hope you are continuing to find peace and strength in all you do. You are, and always will be, a source of inspiration to me to have courage and self-belief and above all - fun and passion for life. Love you,
Raych x
Like others, I have never met you Vicky or your family, but have been on the bus all the way, quietly watching and posting the odd blog. I just want to send my love along with everyone else and to let you know that I think you are a strong and beuatiful lady who undoubtedly brings endless love and happiness to all those whose lives you touch. Sue xx (Wirral)
Dear Vicky
I have only just found out that you are ill. I am really sorry that I have not been in touch for so long. I've been thinking of you in Zimbabwe and what comes to mind is dancing, laughing and general late night revelling. Then I think about sitting outside your house in Nyanga in the sun and remember you making guacomole (if that's how you spell it). That's one of the things I learnt from you!! - oh, and also butternut soup!! I also think about you eating toasted sandwiches in that coffee shop in Harare whose name has passed me by. And of course going for mad runs with Ian - something I could never understand!
You are a great person with a huge capacity for fun and love and you have touched my life and I want to send you lots of love and hugs and thoughts of wonderful times to help you through this time. Martin sounds like a wonderful partner. My thoughts go to Iona as she is about the same age as Isabelle. I'm sure she is a gorgeous little girl in the likeness of her mother. She will have your strength and your capacity for enjoying life.
I hope you feel cushioned by the enormous love surrounding you. We send all ours to protect you just that bit more.
Louisa, Anthony, Isabelle and Amelia xxxxx0000000
Dear Vicky,
We have been tracking your bus and sending you lots of love and support but we need to get on now. John and Margot have been keeping us informed of how things are and how you are shining through all of this - no wonder the buses are packed!!
It's years since we saw each other, but we have so many happy memories of the wonderful breaks in France. We know what a beautiful, funny and vivacious person you are and what a wonderful friend you have been to so many people. Just think of of that love that you have generated...
We wish you all of the strength in the world to stay at peace with where you are and to really know the impact that you have had in so many people's lives.
With lots of Love and hugs to you,
Margaret, Peter & Rachel xxx
O Vicky
What a bloody awful illness this is. And what amazing strength it brings out in those afflicted by it.
Your latest posts moved both Kate and I to tears. Although you and Kate barely know each other, she still wants to send you a great big hug.
Much love
Colin, Kate, Danny and George
Dear Vicky, Martin and Iona
Only just back from holiday today and have picked up your latest news (via Diarmid's blog - thanks for that update).
So desperately sorry to hear that you've been hit again with another bolt from this bl***y illness. Just wanted you to know how much I'm thinking of you all and sending you all my love and strength. You are all an inspiration...
Big hugs,
Wendy (TSN)
Vicky
I have been absolutely stunned for a week and unable to find the words to add to your blog. The fact that you have this blog and have so many people interacting on the site sending you their love just highlights how you think of others, keeping us all updated even when things are tough for you.
You have so much strength and courage and really are an inspiration to us all.
I am starting my maternity leave this week so have sent the link home to keep updated. Just wanted to let you know I am thinking of you.
Love Claire xx(TSN)
Hi Diarmid - I've only met Vicky a couple of times through Judy G, but we've been following her journey and just wanted to send our love. We've got so much in common and I'm sure would have grown into great friends. Our thoughts and love are with her now at this time, as they are with Iona and Martin too. Please give her a hug from us all. Kate Phil and Millie mousexxx
Dearest Vicky,
I was so shocked when I first read this blog entry that all I could do was send you a huge hug and bucketfuls of our love.
But there is more I want to say to you. I want to re-iterate what both Beccy B & Kerrie have said, in that you have been not only a wonderful friend for the last 7 years but also a mentor to me. Both through work and in life.
I can honestly say that I don't think I'd be where I am today without the love and support you have shown me over the years. You have shared the highs and the lows with me, and we have had many laughs, gossips and exciting travels together.
I am so glad that we had some lovely times together when we were home back in July. I will treasure those memories and of course all the memories of the fun and frolicks at Destination Bristol.
I'm really hoping that you got my letter that I wrote a few weeks ago - although I'm doubting the speed of the post in China!
Will love you always
Sarah & Andrew xx
Dear Vicky,
I don't think we have seen each other since John and Margot's wedding many years ago, but whenever I speak with either of them, they tell me of your progress and your bravery. I was so sorry to hear from them this last weekend of the recent downturn in your health.
We only met a few times, but I well remember your buoyant and infectious spirit when we vacationed together in France with John and Margot and at their pre wedding and wedding celebrations.
I feel sure that this spirit and fortitude will stay with you and help you through whatever the coming days and weeks will bring.
Your blog is an inspiration to those who have met you and I am sure too, to many who have not met you, but feel that they know you through your willingness to share your thoughts and feelings. I know it will bring comfort to others who have to deal with the same challenges well into the future.
All the beautiful responses from your friends and family around the world are a testament to the impact you have had and will continue to have on so many people.
With love to you and your family
Kevin Moss
Washington DC USA.
Dear Vicky,
I saw Marina on Saturday night, and she told me your news. I hope you don't mind me getting in touch again out of the blue after so many years. I just wanted to send you a huge hug; we worked together very briefly in STB London (with Marina, of course, Lorraine, Gavin and Graeme) and the thing I remember most about you is your lovely smile.
I hope that the headaches and nausea have eased for you; I am thinking of you and all your family at this time.
Gwynn xx
Dear Vicky - I was so hoping your holiday would have done some good,and not turned out as it did - as I was so looking forward to coming to see you. I still have a picture (on my study windowsill) of us Bristol girls in Portugal drinking beer - cos you had the bottle of champagne, at whatever time it was we won that race. Your smile in that picture is how I always will remember you. If only we had had some inkling of how things were going to turn out! You face everything life has thrown at you with trememdous courage and will always remain an inspiration to me - I don't think I could do what you have done. I'm so glad that you have found the 'right' Martin at last and were able to have lots of good times with him before November last year. As ever, words fail me so I shall now just send lots of love and hugs along this phone line and hope they come out when Martin prints this for you. There are some for Martin too for standing by you and being your rock and some for Iona to help her through the next weeks, months and years. We're all thinking of you and hoping that St Peters will make you as comfortable as possible. With all my love, Jane and Tim, Ellen and Charlie.xxxxxxx
Dear Vicky
We haven't been in touch all that much lately but the memories are still there: Those early days of Bristol Tourism with the endless after-work beers and hangovers- how did we ever get any work done? Camping in Croyde and watching football in the pub. REM and the Cranberries in Cardiff. Skiing in Alpes D'Huez. Zimbabwe (I also have memories of the avocadoes and still use your guacamole recipe), night visits by hippos, bus journeys and of course more beer. Lots of happy memories and lots of fun. So much has happened since then but it still only feels like yesterday.
You've got an amazing team behind you now and both John and I hope that you are as comfortable and at peace with everythng as you can be.
Thanks to Martin and the rest of your family for staying strong and keeping us updated on your progress. We are a long way away but it doesn't feel so far when we get your news.
Sending you all our love,
Lisa, John, Finn, Millie & Hamish xxxxxxxxx
Oh Vicky - I can hear the sounds of hearts break for you all over the world. All those people who've stood in your light to varing degrees. How blest we all are to know you and be infected by your great spirit and love.
It was only a for a year that I shared your flat and - vicariously - your life; my first year in Bristol had been quite lonely and exclusively work and then suddenly living with you was such fun! Trying out recipes on each other, swapping books, giving verdits on outfits (in those days I had more than you but from all the comments about FF is sounds like the tables have turned on that front!), being teased or given kind and considered advise when I was getting in a tiz over work, our chats walking to work. I recall your evening catch phrase following washing up duties before getting stuck into some activity "Let's make a plan!" Trying to keep up with your comings and goings and various Clipper missions I remember your request before dashing off - "I don't mind what you do, just remember to water my plants"
Every time I am looking for something in my sewing basket I come across a little bit of beading left over from the dress I made you to wear at Anna's wedding and I think of you. Used as I was to making thinkgs for such a shortie as myself I remember when I made it being amazed at the length of the fabrice pieces for a full length dress for such a tall girl! You looked fab in it.
I send you much love and am glad to know that you are surrounded by your wonderful family and hospice carers. Peace be with you.
love Priscilla xxx
Just wanted to say 'hello' that's all - and send you a big squeeze ;o).
I'm at work, meant to be clearing out all my emails before I leave but I am procrastinating - we've all been there!
Just wanted to catch up on your journey and read all your lovely messages.
Big hug and smile coming your way.
Beccy B
Dearest Vicky,
I wonder if you have any idea just how far your magic has travelled. This is Lizzie's (H-B)sister, she speaks of you often with such love in her eyes, it's infectious, thank you. You are a gift, treasured by all those you touch.
Sent with love and gratitute
xEmma
Diarmid, are you the son of John Lawrence DOODY, ex- of the Palestine Police? I have done some research into John's service, and noted that he had a son named Diarmid: found this blog via Google. Looking forward to your response! Please respond to my e-mail address -
John Tennant (CANADA)
jjtennant@rogers.com
Diarmid, was your father John Lawrence DOODY, ex-Palestine Police? I have noted, in research into his service, that he left a son named Diarmid: I found your blog via Google. Looking forward to your response - you can contact me below.
John Tennant (CANADA)
jjtennant@rogers.com
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