RJH: 01/11/41 - 30/06/06

Hey guys - sorry it's been a while.

The reason I've not been blogging is because, as some of you may already know, my father Roger James Hemming (RJH) passed away at the end of June. He was 64, and died of Liver Cancer.

As you may have gathered from the last couple of posts, his condition went downhill pretty rapidly. In fact the doc who gave him 'a few months' was slightly overestimating, and from that time on actually lived another 3 1/2 weeks. I got to see him a couple of times and it was obvious he was in a lot of pain. He had accepted his situation and was completely at peace. He had organised his affairs, said his goodbyes, and was ready to meet his maker. Being an active christian, he had no doubts about the next life and was ready to meet his maker.

It was a bit weird, and quite hard to come to terms with that his health went down so quickly, but after the shock of the situation, we could see that he was ready, and it was a real blessing that he died after only three peaceful and pain free days in the hospice. I have spent the last couple of weeks going back & forwards between my mum's home & mine, sorting out legal stuff, funeral arrangements, and being with my mum & my sister. The thanksgiving service happened last Wednesday and many who were there commented on how positive it was - a real celebration of his life as well as a chance to say goodbye.

If you're the praying type, perhaps you'd say one for my mum - who is getting used to being on her own now - obviously that's a big adjustment. For myself, I'm quite relieved that the intensity of the service etc is over, and looking forward to some time to process everything - though our new baby is due on 31st July and therefore could arrive anytime in the next 3 weeks, so the next few weeks won't quite be business as usual for us. Watch this space for more exciting news!

For now I'd like to finish with a word about my dad. There is much to say about him and many people have expressed grateful thanks for all he did to help and encourage them. He was a great engineer and organiser, a project manager of buildings and encourager of people. He had a strong faith - particularly expressed through helping people who were struggling. It's hard to sum up all that he meant to me, but these words, which are copied from the father's day card I sent him about 3 weeks before he died, are about as good as I can get it:-

"You gave me both roots and wings. You provided for me, protected me, showed me how to make people feel welcome and part of the family - and helped me make the most of my opportunities. You and mum provided the environment for me to grow, and the resources to help me discover my talents and find my own way. I am so thankful for all you did for me - and for our continued friendship. I love you so much, Nigel"