I think this is probably the hardest post I've ever had to write.
I'm desperately sad to announce that our lovely Alison died last week. I haven't posted until now because I wanted to respect her amazing husband's wishes and give him time to contact as many people as he possibly could to let them know in person, but I know the news has now got out in spite of this.
I've known Alison for many years - since before her horrible illness, and she was one of the most inspiring, genuine and truly beautiful people I've ever been lucky enough to count as a friend. She dealt with some of the toughest times anyone could be asked to with courage, humour and stoicism. Her determination to just get on with things and achieve as much as she could should be a lesson to us all.
I should also say a couple of words about Malc, who has been her husband, carer, best friend and rock through all the good and bad times, and who remains all of that and more even now. He's an extraordinary person, and I'm so proud to know him.
Alison touched so many people's lives in both big and small ways, and her warmth, generosity and spirit will live on, but right now, it all seems very cruel.
Dearest friend, I will miss you so much.
There are no words for this loss. I am sure her flame will live on, in the lovely memories you all have.
Such sad news, thoughts going to her loved ones. xxx
Alison was one of those rare people who could brighten up a room with her presence. I only met her at Flameoff, but she was so genuinely welcoming and friendly to everyone. She really will be missed.
Malcolms posts on FB have never ceased to amaze me whith how he has stayed upbeat and continued to fight for her wellbeing, and saddened me by the pain and suffering she has gone through. Life threw so much at them in the last year or so.
May she now rest in peace.
xxx
Shocked and saddened when I heard these news. My warmest sympathies go to Malc who looked after Alison in such a wonderful way!! x x
Such sad news :'( My thoughts are with Malc and Alison's family.
I can't find the right words so I'll just repeat Sue's. My thoughts are with Malc and the rest of Alison's family. Life can be so cruel sometimes.
She was a wonderful genuine, caring and generous person and Malc was a soul mate for her. She will be sadly missed.
She was so lovely, such a genuine, fun soul. So so sad :(
Very sad to hear this and although I never met her, her warmth of spirit and sense of fun has been evident in posts on this forum so my deepest condolences to her family and all that knew and loved her at this difficult time.
i remember when i first met Alison way back when at the lusherie you told me George that everyday we have with her is a blessing and it was ,she was so funny with a wicked naughty sense of humour, so full of life and love despite all her health issues .she will leave a big gap in our lives so i cannot begin to imagine how her family and her darling Malc are feeling . i hope for all that knew and loved her That Alison no longer being in pain is of some help at this time of great sorrow
I only knew Alison from her posts on this forum and on FB, and seeing her at one of Di East's get-togethers, but I'm in bits thinking about her husband's loss :'( She was one special lady, may she rest in peace xx
Such a wonderful lady, I'm so terribly saddened by this. My love and thoughts go out to Malc.
x
Condolences to Malc and her family and friends. Such a lovely and inspirational lady who will be sorely missed. RIP Alison xx
George, I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your lovely friend......your words were a lovely tribute to her.
My thoughts are with her family and friends.
Yes George - a beautiful tribute, pretty much echoed everything I thought about Alison. And that wicked sense of humour - she was a real one off. I still can't believe I won't see her again. This is so tough on poor Malc - what an absolute hero that man has been throughout all the troubles they had. My only comfort is knowing the pain is over. I can't find the words to express how terribly sad this is.
For anyone who's not on facebook, I'll just post a quick update to tell you that Alison's funeral will be at Nuneaton Crematorium at 2.15pm on Monday 22nd December. Malc has asked that we wear bright, happy party clothes in honour of her love of colour - she was never a black and white sort of girl. We're all welcome back at the house afterwards, and any contributions of food and drink for the buffet would be gratefully received.
Alison asked that there should be no flowers, but donations in lieu to the Dog's Trust.
Thanks for this George, I didn't see the announcement on Facebook. I'm so glad that I'll be up in the midlands then as I will be able to go.
So sorry to hear this news. She was a lovely lady. Our thoughts are with Malc and the family.
I've only just seen this. How sad to lose such a talented lady from our midst. She will be missed!
I've only just seen this too! So so sad to lose another beautiful beady buddy! I've never met her (being on the other side of the world) but my condolences to her family!