It's been a really challenging few days. The practicalities of death during a pandemic are all the more complicated, as millions of families across the globe sadly know all too well. One of the complications is that we were unable to spend any time with him towards the end and even afterwards, many of the opportunities you might ordinarily get to say goodbye simply aren't available. While Grandad was the second wonderful person to be taken from me by a cancer of the blood, Covid-19 has a lot to answer for in how it took him. It's for that reason that going through his belongings has turned into an almost sacred experience. One that's helping us to process the events that led us to this point.
The journey: The Reveal
Elliot • 19 February 2021
After more than a decade, this was the moment Grandad found out she was home.
Firstly, in addition to sharing the video of the reveal I said I would share details of the JustGiving page that we've set up to raise some funds for The Royal British
Legion, The Alzheimer's Society
and Mind
in his memory. You'll find the page for donations HERE, and I've also updated the original post
with the same link. Alternatively, you can click on the charity logo image below.
We always knew that he was a sentimental soul (much like me apparently!) so uncovering the letters, cards, diaries, home videos and keepsakes amassed from a lifetime of happiness has been emotional but comforting. During the week, we came across a letter written to the DVLA from 2014. Attached to it was a cheque and a request for information form.
The letter explained how he was desperately searching for his old car in order to reunite it with me. It said that he wanted to get in touch with the current keeper with a view to buying the car back. Also attached to the letter was the response from the DVLA explaining why this wasn't possible and returning his cheque. I certainly got a lump in my throat upon finding it. It got me thinking about the day my amazing friends Robin and Rob helped me to haul the car out of a garden and get it home. With the help of my sister, I also remember surprising first my mum, and then my Grandad with the sight of her on my driveway after a very long search. Remembering the happy times is a great coping mechanism where grief is concerned, and while I wasn't planning on sharing this video just yet, the time is right. So here it is.
The moment he saw her.
If you knew my grandad personally his funeral will be held on 25 March 2021 at Sandwell Crematoriu m, although it is likely that Covid-19 restrictions will limit numbers. In lieu of flowers, all we’re asking is that you do what came so naturally to him - Tell those people precious to you that you love them. If you’d like to make a donation to his memory, we will be splitting the proceeds three ways. To the Royal British Legion, the Alzheimer’s Society and of course, to Mind. You can do so by heading to our JustGiving page . For now though, there are plenty of wonderful memories for us to immerse ourselves in. How lucky we are to have them. And how lucky we were to have you; Ron, Ronaldo Longero, Corporal R.S Long, ‘Old Grumpy’... Grandad. Sleep well. We love you.
It's time to end the stigma of metnal health. You are not alone.
How did we manage to uncover such a rich histroy for Bess? A lucky find and the power of the internet... Read the latest to find out more.
One of the sacrifices that needs to be made in order to get bess back on the road is my lovely MINI GP.
Well, I'm not quite sure how it happened, but I've had her back for a whole year...
As a follow up to my story, I share my thoughts on some of the feedback and engagement I've had. There are also a couple of questions that I'd like to hear form you about.
...we start the task of dismantling her. That's right, the restoration has begun. But here's one last look around before the transformation begins.
A follow up after the vlog of my story. Read about the impact it's had at home and work. #mindyourmind
With the end of mental health awareness week here in the UK, I wanted to reflect on why I'd chosen to support Mind with this project, and tell you my story too.
