Always With Me

This Friday, November 15, is my birthday—a chance to celebrate another year around the sun, yet it always carries a touch of sadness. It marks 19 years since my dad passed away from multiple myeloma, a form of blood cancer. Yes, he died on my birthday, around 9:30 p.m. in a nursing home. Although I spent most of that day with him and Mum, I wasn’t there at the very end.

Earlier that evening, I’d had a small moment of celebration, a bit of birthday cake after dinner, not realising what the night would hold. We returned soon after his passing. He looked so peaceful. I managed a quick glimpse before the tears came, barely brave enough to take it all in. Even now, it’s hard to believe how it all unfolded on that day.

I miss him every day. I wish he were here to see the work I've done in the mental health sector—he’d be proud.

If you're looking to make a positive impact, please consider donating to my Facebook fundraiser for A Bloody Great Cause.? Facebook

My dad was cared for by the amazing Haematology Team at Concord Hospital during his 18-month battle with illness and was also part of their clinical trials. This fundraiser supports the world-leading haematology research at Concord Haematology, Concord Hospital, dedicated to finding cures and saving lives. Your support can make a real difference in advancing life-saving research. Thank you for considering!

For Dad

Another year turns, November’s here, My birthday dawns with quiet cheer. But tucked beneath the day's embrace, Is sorrow in a tender place.

Nineteen years, yet still I find, Your absence carved into my mind. You left that night, so close to me, A quiet part of my history.

I wasn’t there to see you go, Yet in my heart, I somehow know You felt my love, though out of sight, And left this world in peaceful light.

I miss you, Dad, in ways so deep, In moments loud, in moments steep, In all the things I’ve yet to do, I wish I could have shared with you.

I hope you see the work I give, The lives I touch, the way I live. Each step I take, I carry you, In all the things I fight to do.

Another year, another day— But you’re with me, in every way.

? Jenny Smith 2024