In June 2022 our amazing Dad Derek, lost his battle to MND.

Dear Pops, 

I can't believe it's just over a year since you were diagnosed with MND. It's really hard to get my head around that we will never go to the coast, have Lopenbury or drink cider together again. You always enjoyed the simple things in life.

I know how much you valued Mum and Tyler looking after you when there wasn't enough carers to help. Not much has changed with there being a shortage of carers but as you know there is hopefully going to be a MND center in Leeds to help other families and patients with Motor Neurones.

It sounds a good place where patients and their families will have the comfort knowing they are being cared for properly and to have the chance to live the rest of their time more comfortably.

 I'm still going to help raise some money for the center by running the marathon as I know with you being the caring person you were, you would want other people who are suffering, to have better support and resources. I just didn't think I'd be running in your memory. I really did think I'd see you at the finish line.

I want the world to know you were the best Dad, you were the most caring, kind, funny man. Curt, Tyler and me are so proud to have called you our Dad.

Eddie is lovely, he's doing really well! I know you were so excited to meet him. Even though you were taken sooner than we expected and didnt get the chance to meet your first grandchild, Eddie will always know who you were, we already talk to him about you.  (I'll do my best to get him in to rugby rather than football but between us I think with the way he kicks in the bath, he will be a footballer! But I will make sure he supports the Chiefs!)

Mum misses you alot, you were literally her other half. I know how much you loved her and she will always love you. Thank you for letting her know the other day that you were with her at Curt's meal (the white feather tucked into her sleeve, very subtle enjoying just being there, just how you were when you were here).

The boys are ok, they still love a bev and the rugby but I know they wish you were still here to text the latest line ups too and feel lost without you. I know for a fact both of them would do anything to have you back, even sit with you through a 24hr fishing competition! 

We really love you, the only thing I can  think is that you were just too good to be in this world, thats why this happened.  Not a day goes by where we don't think about you.

See you soon- I love you infinity + 80006057+ more.

Love

Mindy

Xxxxx