The Lou Quinn Ovarian Cancer Fund.

On May 1st 2013 one of my best friends was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. She died on May 13th 2013. Her name is Lou Quinn, and needless to say her death was gutting to her family and to her friends. It was so quick, so unexpected and so unknown.

The signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer are so vague, so please be vigilant. This list is sourced from The Australian Cancer Council:

Symptoms that may indicate ovarian cancer are vague and may include one or more of the following:

• abdominal bloating or a feeling of fullness.
• loss of appetite.
• unexplained weight gain.
• constipation.
• heartburn.
• back, abdominal or pelvic pain.
• frequent urination.
• fatigue.

Following her passing her partner, Terry and her Mum, Maggie, established the "Lou Quinn Ovarian Cancer Fund", which over this past year has raised more than $21,000.00 for The Royal Women's Hospital's research into ovarian cancer. This is an amazing achievement.

Please, if you have a bit of spare cash, donate to Lou's fund here. All funds are needed so desperately for ongoing research.

Terry is also on a huge fundraising ride around America currently, he is determined to raise awareness of this terrible disease. You can follow his ride via his blog, it is a terrific read, with great photos to enjoy as well.

Source: http://www.cancer.org.au/about-cancer/early-detection/early-detection-factsheets/ovarian-cancer.html

Saying farewell

My main role as a civil celebrant is as a wedding celebrant. However, just recently I conducted a funeral service for the father of a dear friend of mine. I think that the process of formulating the ceremony is made easier when you have a pre-existing relationship with the family although in a way it is harder as you are emotionally attached as well. Either way, it is a huge honour to be the one chosen to assist the family in remembering their loved one.

The Measure of a Man: Author Unknown.

Not - How did he die? But - how did he live?

Not - What did he gain? But - what did he give?

These are the things that measure the worth,

Of a man as a man, regardless of birth.

Not - What was his station? But - had he a heart?

And - How did he play his God-given part?

Was he ever ready with a word of good cheer?

To bring back a smile, to banish a tear?

Not - What was his church? Not - What was his creed?

But - Had he befriended those really in need?

Not - What did the sketch in the newspaper say?

But - How many were sorry when he passed away?

These are the things that measure the worth


Of a man as a man, regardless of birth.