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The Special People of 2009

I do need to mention some very special people, all of whom have inspired me in 2009 for a variety of reasons.

Jane Cartwright & Nicky Davies, you have both been so amazingly courageous and strong – I may have suffered a tragic loss myself this year, but I could not imagine losing a parent. To be so strong in yourselves and for others displays a bravery that few can imagine. My good friend Steve Sealy, also lost a special presence in his life recently, and my thoughts are with you all, and your families, going into the New Year.

It always amazes me that as a special spirit leaves our earthly presence, a new one so often arrives. 2 hours prior to Dani’s death, my good friend Asim Chaudhry and his wife Farah had their first child. Other special new parents this year are Alex & Paul Tregellas, Ellen Palin - and most special to me, Dani’s brother & his lovely wife – Damian Price & Catherine. You will all be very special parents, and your children blessed to have you.

My special friends, Dilshan Rakanayake and Jayne Stankowski, your devotion to each other amazes me. I am privileged that I will be Best Man at your wedding next year – Jayne, I do not need to tell you how Dani was looking forward to being a Bridesmaid.

The other couple of whom I am in such awe are Simon Cooke and his lovely fiancée Juliette – guys, it has not been lost on me that you will share the same wedding anniversary that Dani and I would have done.

I will not try to put together an Oscar Speech thanking everyone for their support in the last 6 weeks. You all know who you are – however, I must reserve a special thanks for my wonderful mum, Nazli.

My biggest inspiration this year, however, is a young lady and friend by the name of Lorna Harris. Lorna has been battling Cancer and even during this time has consistently taken time to be there for others, not least myself. Laurie, you inspire me in every way – your bravery, spirit, fortitude and warmth are a combination that will get you through all of this.

I end on a sombre, but special note, remembering 4 wonderful people who have left us in 2009 – you are all sorely missed and dearly remembered:-

• Kitty O’Mahoney
  Our next door neighbour for years and like a grandmother to me as a child
• Catherine Mills-Price
  Dani’s wonderful mum who dedicated her working life to the charity sector
• Alan Redwood
  Tragically taken at 30, a resident at Mum’s Residential Home for Autism – an inspiration to so many
• Danielle Price
  My fiancée, guardian angel and best friend