09/12/2025
I had intended on sharing some photos of my new counselling space by now, but a few days after my last post, my Mum was admitted to hospital.ย
As many of you know, she was diagnosed with stage 4 ovarian cancer 3 years ago. She had major surgery, multiple rounds of chemo and various other treatments throughout that time - each one handled with grace, strength and positivity.ย Last month it was determined there were no further treatment options, and after just 10 days of palliative care my beautiful Mum died, aged 64, on Sunday 23rd November ๐ the day after my eldest daughter's 9th birthday. I have no doubt that she was determined not to die on the 22nd. Plus, it had to be a Sunday - her favourite day of the week, when we gather as a family.
It was her funeral yesterday. Such a large number of people came that some stood outside the chapel at Warriston Crematorium, and we had to use the overflow area at the hotel afterwards. It was a sad but unexpectedly joyful day, surrounded by so many people that love my Mum. She would have loved it.
My Mum was a Sunshine Soul. Beautiful inside and out. Warm, welcoming, nurturing, loving, supportive, generous, loyal and strong. The best Mum and Grandma. Renowned for her Big Hugs, ability to conjure up a homemade meal for 20+ people with ease and for making the most of every day and the best of every situation. Just 3 months ago, she raised ยฃ6350 for Target Ovarian Cancer by cycling 30km for the Tour de Four, and it looks like we can add another ยฃ2k to that total from the collection at the funeral.
My family and I have been so moved by the number of beautiful messages, cards, flowers and food parcels that we have received in the last couple of weeks. I'm not sure what the next wee while will have in store, but I'm returning to work tomorrow and have my girls' nativity and carol concerts coming up. I'm trying to embrace the 'both/and' of grief: I can feel both heartbroken about my Mum and still find joy in the everyday moments, just as she would want us all to do.
