A little less death and illness would be nice, thanks
The father of a friend of mine is dying of lung cancer.
He was always bursting with energy, one of those people who can possibly get on your nerves because they keep you constantly on your toes, but who leave an indelible mark with their humour (and the way they cook fish).
He was the incredibly strong centre of the family. He organised everything, took care of everything, did everything, and this is why his wife and children now feel completely lost. He got much worse yesterday and was taken to hospital. They told me that they are simply waiting for it to happen now.
My friend is trying to be strong and put up a brave face, but I can't help wondering how she feels. She lost a very young aunt (whom she adored) when she was little. Her own mother survived breast cancer a few years ago, and now her dad is going.
It looks unlikely that I will see my friend when I am in Italy this weekend: I want and need to give my mother, who is just out of hospital after surgery, my undivided attention. But I wish I could hug my friend very tight, and let her know that I am there, even if words fail me.
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