Alison, my very special friend, way back from our student days in Aberdeen. Your kindness and generosity knew no bounds. You were brave, funny, lived life to the full and always there for me. How lucky I am to have been your friend that makes it so hard to say goodbye. You will always be in my heart.

Remember me as a sunny day
 That we all enjoyed along the way Remember me as a breath of spring
 That brings the birds to fly and sing
 Remember me as a funny clown 
That made you laugh when you were down Remember me as a unique live wire
 But didn't I inspire you to fly a bit higher?
 Remember me with every song you sing I worked so hard to be the real thing Remember me as the red balloon 
At a party which ended too soon
 Remember me as a sound of laughter 
I echo the same in the hereafter …
 (Adapted from a Diana Ross song)

I will miss our long lunches our friendship. Your support and kindness.