This is a bittersweet blog post for me.
On the one hand, I feel relieved that it is soon to be over (if you missed the news, click here) but on the other hand, it's devastating to imagine leaving those behind that I love.
I think it's harder for those who are going to be left behind than me. I feel very fortunate and blessed to have incredible parents, an amazing husband and fantastic friends.
I think my time is perhaps a little too short but I wouldn't change it for the world.
It's very difficult to understand why my parents lost another daughter and why Dean has to endure this, but it's not for us to understand. I would much rather have had a short time with these amazing people than a lacklustre life.
I hope that within the lifetime of my close friends and family, there will be a cure for cancer, particularly my own triple negative breast cancer.
I hope that you'll all remember me fondly and I'm grateful for all of the opportunities that I have had.
Although this won't be my last blog (I hope), I would like for everyone to support my parents and Dean as they're going to need it.
Amanda.
PS If anyone sends me a positive vibe...
While we don't know each other personally, it's been a privilege to read your words and experience your courage and dignity. Both have brought a badly needed perspective to my own life, and I will never forget you. As you requested, I will be there for Dean as will many others. He will never be alone.
ReplyDeleteI know you don't want positive vibes, so I will send you love and empathy instead. Hope that's okay.
Hi Jaiden, I know you've been following our journey and appreciate you sharing this with your wider audience too.
DeleteMuch love
Dean
The value of a person is not their wealth, their property or their length of time on this earth, but the effect they have on those around them. To live well, to live life to the full. To also be so strong at this time is quite frankly amazing, and gives your friends and family such strength.
ReplyDeleteMy contact with you has been mainly professional, and never has a word been more suited. You are someone who would always be at the end of the phone and ready with a solution in the tightest of timeframes. Whatever the request you were happy to help, and often the one to save the day.
Like most at this time I feel useless that I can't do anything to help you. All I can offer right now is words. Know that you WILL be remembered, that many people ARE thinking of you and your family, and you have been an inspiration to others.
Terri Westgate.
Hi Terri, as Amanda is struggling with her typing speed/ability, she wanted me to say thank you so much for your kind words.
DeleteDean (on behalf of Amanda)
Amanda I am so lucky to have known you. You have been such an amazing support to me in my role, always at the end of the phone with positive solutions
ReplyDeleteto really tricky problems, the number of tight spots you've got us out of...
You are a real inspiration to others in the courageous and selfless way you have lived your life and this is the legacy you leave.
I'm so glad David was able to phone me so I had the opportunity to tell you how much I enjoyed knowing you, and how much love the Marketing team at CITB are sending you.
Hi Fiona, I'm typing this on behalf of Amanda. Thank you for everything that you have said above. I always enjoyed working with your team and sometimes it felt like there was no distinction between us and you.
DeleteBest wishes.
Dean.
Amanda's husband
Sometimes news hits us hard, and this has. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all as a family. We believe as Christians, have read of, seen on TBN Uk (channel 65 Freeview) & experienced ourselves that God does heal, even cancer, even after we are given "little hope" from the medical experts. Sadly we know that healing doesn't always come (who can fathom God) & life here in this troubled world is just a preparation for a fantastic eternal life. It's those we leave behind who are the worse off.
ReplyDeleteSo we continue in prayer for you all. Our love.
Rob & Carole xx
Amanda, You are a fabulous and courageous woman. I know that you will live on in your friend's and family's hearts. It has been a honour too, for you to share your story, so candidly. Time may have run out but you have lived a wonderful full life that I know will be treasured by many. No vibes required. Thanks Julia x
ReplyDeleteDear Amanda
ReplyDeleteI only discovered your news today via Patrick's LinkedIn post. I can't believe it - absolutely choked and even more so having read your (and Dean's) posts here. I'm really not sure what to say accept that when I told my wife the news this evening, whilst she's never met you, and you and I have only met a handful of times, she instantly knew who I was talking about. Such is the impression you have made on me and clearly I had passed on. Your courage, selflessness and positivity in all of this comes as no surprise. Thinking of you and your family. With love and hope, Ali (mark-making*) x