Belinda was diagnosed with breast cancer on our wedding anniversary 2013. All her treatment and consultation had to be undertaken at Royal Berks Hospital in Reading, which, whilst they did their best at the Cancer department, was far from pleasant given the crumbling Victorian building, parking issues and general bleak prognosis. Having gone through successful chemotherapy, radiotherapy and mastectomy,  on our wedding anniversary 2019 we received the news that it had returned and this time it was terminal.

We did however hear that the long awaited Rosemary centre was almost complete and Newbury Cancer care began looking after Bel. It became like a second home to her and she even looked forward to going for PIC line flushing and chemotherapy to try to prolong life a little. She became a ray of sunshine when she visited I was latterly told, and laughter was often heard coming from her direction and radiating out to others. She was never happier than visiting for ‘well being days’, where she would have lunch and enter into the many arts and crafts activities available. It became her lifeline and she inspired so many through her positive attitude.

Unfortunately, Covid lockdown put a stop to any social activities and she only went for treatment. Bel was quite looking forward to her inevitable palliative care in the Rainbow rooms as she saw it as a happy place. Sadly, it wasn’t to be. Despite best efforts, she lost her battle at the end of March 2021 having gone to Royal Berks for a minor procedure whilst still in lockdown. She always held Newbury Cancer Care in the highest esteem and as such, I have now dedicated my spare money, time and musical ability to the cause in her memory.

Nick

If you would like to join us for an evening of great music November 9th for FestiBel III, tickets are available at ticketsource.co.uk/festibel