25/08/2026
I held your spot today.
I used that time to just sit in the room and reflect.
You were one of my very first clients, you continued to come to me with each clinic relocation I made. Your support and encouragement for me and my business, for over 10 years, never faltered.
I can remember you telling me with excitement when each of your last two grandchildren were born, and hearing all about them as they've grown into their own little people with quirky personalities that you adored.
I remember your words of comfort during my Mum's illness, and the flowers you brought me when she passed.
My favourite coffee cup is one that you gifted me with words of inspiration on it, and the beautiful orchard you gifted for Cameron's 50th still flowers regularly.
Our many, many conversations over all of these years were mostly centred around family. You always showed an interest in my children and Cameron, asking about what they're getting up to in life, and I was always eager to be kept up to date with stories of your husband, your adult children and numerous grandchildren regarding their studies, careers, relationships and everything in between. You were so very proud of them all.
I usually just listened with consideration when you offered up your strong political and religious views, as they were quite different to mine. They never changed how I felt about you, they were yours to have and I respect that.
Little did I know that the last time I saw you, was the last time I would see you. I remember us making your next few bookings ahead to ensure you didn't miss out on the day and time you like. I remember telling you to 'take care' as you were leaving, and you called back to me "see you in a fortnight" with a smile on your face as you went out the door.
You missed your appointment when that next fortnight came, You Never Missed a single appointment, every two weeks, unless you were on holiday, I was on holiday, or you'd phoned me to re-schedule.
I sent you a message, hoping everything was okay.
Eventually a reply came through from your phone, but it wasn't from you, it was from one of your daughters......
So the next booking was for today – Tuesday 25th August, 3pm. I didn't cancel your appointment - I held your spot. I just sat quietly in the room for the time you would have been here with me.
You were strong and stoic. You were clever, witty, and wise. You were thoughtful and caring. You meant a great deal to me.
I will remember you with deep fondness, and I'm sure there will be times when I wonder about what your family might be doing now. I am so grateful I got to know you. I will miss our conversations.
I will miss you, J. ❤
