Dear all,
I haven’t seen the website for about 2 weeks and have been accruing thank yous for even longer than that. I am therefore dictating this to Jules who is on her way back to Zim, she has kingly agreed to email this onto the link. I have been feeling very positive today, my breathing is going to plan (slowly) and also saw my family this week and they return from Durban tomorrow. The sun is shining and summer is around the corner; I therefore send every one of you positive energy and good fortune.
I would like to thank the following specific people –
Sally, for her commitment love and courage
Ciara and Erin for being truly who they are
Mum and Dad for time in Joburg which brought me joy when I so desperately needed it (mum I hope you are on the mend)
To Gretta for sending through the information from SIA (some of this is really eye opening)
To Nigel for ‘investing’ in me and looking into the art of the possible in Zimbabwe
To Nick, for everything including your modesty
To Warren and Jules for researching and implementing practical solutions and for 1000 naartjies!
Mike, Nadine and SJ for alternative movies stereo sound and the voice of Jeremy Irons
To Mona, for the ‘joy of living’
To Mark Wiggill for doing my job
To Leandra for bringing treats!
To Ross for his rambling touching letters
To James for printing and delivering these letters
To Lilong for arranging the blessing and the energy healer
To Vanessa for sounding me out
To Tessa for flying half way across the world
To John Messenger, Gretta and Lyn for planning fundraising days
To Alan Jenner for the Stephen Gerrard shirt – much appreciated
Also to the Moon’s and to Grant for their regular visiting and assisting with all the background tasks in Joburg.
Two other messages – To George and Jim – Happy 60th, sorry I missed the party and to the Doran’s best of luck settling in New Zealand, my thoughts are with you.
If I have left you out I sincerely apologise I haven’t got the facilities to take notes and can only rely on what I can remember whilst dictating.
Lots of love
Tom
#1 by FIona McDonald at August 16th, 2009
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Tom – you may remember me from Warren and Jules Wedding in December? Or from the Squires’ house in Harare at weddings and funerals. Or even back in the days at Rhodes. I have been following your progress and getting updates from Warren and Nikki. You inspire me daily, as does Sal. If nothing else, know that you have both have touched so many people. Your friends and family are amazing. Together, you will overcome this. I have changed my view on my life because of you.
#2 by Marc D at August 16th, 2009
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Hey Tom, Great that your spirits are high and looking forward to summer. Have landed in NZ now and brought the worst of the weather with me. Was lying in bed last night breathing for you and realised that no matter where I am or where you are the positive energy and love flows the same – it never stops….. we miss you and thank you for your thoughts
all our love
#3 by Wendy Greenway at August 17th, 2009
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Dearest Tom,
“Obstacles are those frightful things you see when you take your eyes off your goal” Henry Ford
Never give up dear friend!
Ant and wensxxx
#4 by Katrina at August 17th, 2009
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Dearest Tom, I spent yesterday evening with Tess, Jon and their boys in Brisbane.
I feel closer to you having heard your news first hand.
You are forever in my thoughts and prayers
All my love
Kat
#5 by Gretta at August 17th, 2009
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Dearest Tom,
It was so good to read your words – you possibly don’t realise how good it is for all of us to get these words – but they are so so precious. I am really looking forward to my next visit – Nick, I hope has brought you my dates – see you on 25th Sepember for 2 weeks – everyday I hope – you will be bored of my by the time I leave. Love you – Gretta
#6 by jane soper at August 17th, 2009
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Feeling very far away I, too, am glad to read you Tom and hear that you are feeling good. How lovely! May this stay with you and your current weaning work perfectly.
Two people I should like to add to your list of thank yous are Alan and Debbie Little, without whom I would not have managed in Joburg. Thank you both for your quiet and supportive assistance. Jane
#7 by Lyn at August 17th, 2009
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Precious indeed – very precious and great to hear from you. I only hope that our small efforts here, help to give you some strength there. Keep on fighting Tom – love and hugs to you and the family – Lyn x
#8 by Adam and Karin at August 18th, 2009
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Hey Tom, have been away and had dreaded lurgy (not the porcine variety!) so haven’t been to see you, and much apologies for that, so really great to read this post. We’re breathing deep and strong and the CT prayer circle are with you as well via Pauline. May the road ahead rise up to meet you. Our love and thoughts ox. Keep it tidy.
#9 by Leandra at August 18th, 2009
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Hi Tom
I wish i could do more, but until I figure out what…you have to be content with my chocolate cravings! Which ultimately spills over to your bedside.
Everytime I pop in to say hi, you are smiling. Keep on smiling!!!!!
#10 by John Mess at August 21st, 2009
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Dearest Tom,
Thinking of you all the time, as always and knowing that it will not be long before you are outside in the sun, loud and clear! Have started reading “still me”.. every word makes us think of you, and what you are enduring. You are so incredibly loved….
As always, your loving friends, Tess and John
#11 by Gay Peter & Co at August 21st, 2009
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So happy to be updated again. Beautiful photo of u all. We r breathing 4 u. Keep strong Soper family. With so much luv and hugs Gay Peter Seb Freda Jack Joseph Char Karl and Marcus