The message he left behind: Adrian's letter to memorial service

Oct 17 2008 by Andrew Hirst, Huddersfield Daily Examiner

HELLO everyone, hope there is a reasonable turnout, but let's face it, it doesn't really matter to me.

I want today to be a celebration of my life and all the good times we have shared together. Feel free to have tears in your eyes, but I hope, more importantly, it will leave you with a smile on your face.

I would like to thank everyone who has been involved with my treatment. From all the nurses, doctors and specialists on ward P3 at the Hallamshire to the graft versus host disease team at Rotherham through to my GP, Macmillan and district nurses who treated me in the final stages of my life.

Everyone has been wonderful and the quality of care has been nothing short of exceptional.

To all my friends; it has been an absolute privilege to know you and thank you for all the love and support you have shown me – not only through the past 20 disease-riddled months – but for every second I have been lucky enough to be in your company.

Lastly to my big grandma Barbara, auntie Helen and uncle Iain, auntie Philippa, uncle Jon, cousin Hal, my beautiful sister Carrie and my phenomenal parents Kay and Keith.