Lesley aka Sand Dancer 💃🏻

[pontygirl]

Hi Everyone,

I realise that the passing of Lesley has been posted by her friend in Newcastle.

Lesley and I became great friends and I will miss her Hugely more than I can say here.

I kept touch with her during this illness, and her lovely husband Peter & Laura kept me up to speed with everything.

Dan her son spoke to me last night and he wanted the Forum to know about his dearest Mum's passing.

I told him I would discuss with Maz which of us would post this very sad and painful news..

Maz earlier today asked me to do the honours, I'm grateful this has already been addressed..

The pain of knowing how unwell Lesley became so quickly is heartbreaking truly..

I shared this knowledge Privately with Our Dear Maz, a long week ago of Lesley's quickly developing illness.

We waited for the family to be ready to announce it here to all Our MPN Family, so here we are missing one of Our Sisters..

I last spoke with Lesley directly on Christmas Day, she was home in Portamaio after spending time in the Hospital there.

She was her usual self thinking of others, not worrying about herself too much.

I knew she was at least home and able to have the food she liked, in her words,' Piping Hot'..

My husband lost his sister suddenly during advent and we had a Family Funeral just before Christmas.

Thus I didn't realise that a week had passed since I last spoke with Lesley.

I immediately got in touch, only to discover Lesley wasn't recovering as we hoped.

She was re admitted to hospital in Portamaio..

Some days later she was transferred to Lisbon..

Her husband Peter and daughter Laura kept lines of Communication open.

As a Nurse I feared the worst for Our Lovely Lesley with that Beautiful Smile..

I contacted Maz to share my troubled thoughts. She was shocked, we spoke and it's true what they say about a trouble shared. I needed another to know of Lesley's illness and share our thoughts, it had been a lonely few weeks..

Maz as ever was and is a kind generous soul.

As I received news I passed it to Maz, Peter was hopeful of getting Lesley home.

I spoke with Peter on that fateful morning of the 14th January and asked him to give Lesley a kiss & hug from me..

I was to hear early on the 15th that Our Dearest Lesley had passed away the night of the Fourteenth January.

I'm eternally grateful that I asked Peter to hug her and tell her Maz & I were in her corner.

Lesley and I had much in common Daughters and Sons, grandchildren we both have a Sarah, we both also have a Lily granddaughter.

Lesley supported my Sarah in climbing Mount Snowdon last April and my Sarah & Lesley had contact away from our Forum.

Come June my husband was unexpectedly diagnosed with Bladder Cancer, he was fit & well otherwise..

He had Surgery and 6 weeks of treatment and Lesley supported me throughout.

Due to his Cancer we had to cancel staying in Portamaio, Lesley and I intended to have some ladies time...

We planned on Lunch in Alvor to meet up with a fellow friend there..

It wasn't to be, I hoped for late September in Portugal.

Come late September my husband was diagnosed as needing a

Tripple Heart Bypass arghhh

Lesley supported me throughout those 4 weeks waiting for Surgery and afterwards.

We spoke almost daily, one night she said, " you and hubby deserve a break in luck, "I will ask the Universe to send a great Cardiothoracic Surgeon to you"...

The next night a Professor of Cardiology arrived at my husbands bed and announced he would operate on husband next day..

During the 11 hours he was in Surgery I spoke with Lesley every couple of hours.

I firmly believed Lesley sent the Professor and I told her so..

We had planned to book up for April in the Algarve and Lesley and I were planning on going Trampolining in Private.😜

We also intended to sit together at the Day Forum in London November and Lunch, but I couldn't attend due to careing for my husband after his Bypass.

We were jinxed last year but both of us intended 2020 to be different...

Now I can simply tell you all, that my world is a darker place without Lesley in it..

We supported each other with many things, neither of us sleep well, if my phoned buzzed Gently, I knew it was Lesley up in the small hours, debating on Coffee or sitting early morning watching the animals playing in the garden next door.

I stayed 2 nights in an apartment near the BRI Heart Institute just in case I was needed for hubby, 2 buzzes and stop. I knew it was Lesley and Not the Hospital on my phone...

Lesley kept contact throughout and I will miss her Hugely.

Her Positivety on Our MF, she warned me once that I had best be working on 10 years of good living.

When she was diagnosed with MF, I listened to her thoughts and fears, I was diagnosed May 2018 not happy obviously, but I knew I had to accept it. There is no other option!

Lesley gradually settled into MF not high risk fortunately, last year. .She simply kept going for the best part & didn't give in easily on the ' not so good days'...

She jokingly welcomed me to PV late November 2019, little was I to know Lesley would be ill by December.

My PV journey is just beginning and I have my first Venesection next week.

Haematocrit gone Nuts along with my Platelets trying to scale the

Eiffel Tower..

During the Venesection I will be thinking of Lesley on my first go at it.

I can hear her saying, " we can do this ehh"..

Her beautiful smile is infectious and she brought Smiles to Others.

Personally I have a few emails & Pictures I wouldn't change for all the money in the world.

Lesley is the Sister I never had, no longer can we chat about the fashions of our time, music, being teenagers in the Mid 60's, love and marriage and eventually young mothers.

Lesley had celebrated her Sapphire Wedding Anniversary (45 years) with a Beautiful Sapphire Ring, my favourite stone too. My Sapphire Anniversary is next year and I plan on a Sapphire Ring, we both laughed when talking about this, and agreed both our husbands are wonderful, but neither is good at keeping secrets like Surprise Party's etc..

There is just over a year in our ages, me being the eldest.

My thoughts are with her beautiful family, especially her gorgeous granddaughters who will miss their much loved Grandma.

Lesley believed in asking the Great Universe for help and guidance.

I sincerely hope Our Universe or whatever guides us in life, shines down on Lesley's Family and eventually brings them Peace and Understanding as they continue Life without Lesley.

The Night Sky has gained a Beautiful Bright Star to guide and watch over her Loved Ones..

Lesley lives on in her Children and Grandchildren, she was far too Effervescent in Life to ever be forgotten by those of us lucky enough to have known her ❤️

I believe her family will be surprised to read just how much Lesley means to many people here and overseas.

These were Maz's words to me earlier, I agree with Maz.

My Love to Lesley as Always 😍, Our Condolences to her Family..

Maria & Ken 😘😘😘

(Mary)

PS.

Lesley nagged me many times to ditch the Mary tag, I wanted to stay anonymous on Forum from my family reading my first shocked thoughts on ET & MF how naive of me !

[amhann]

A brave post and a lovely tribute to your friend - so very sorry. Anne-Marie.

[pontygirl in reply to amhann]

Thank you Anne Marie much appreciated ..

[bruddery]

I am so sorry to hear of Lesley’s passing. She really was such a wonderful lady so full of positivity and drive for life. She was kind, compassionate and so understanding of everyone. After being in contact with Lesley for quite a while we finally got to meet up with both herself and Peter in Port au Vau in the cafe on her very special beach. I cried buckets on hearing of her passing we’d plans to meet up again in April. I will miss her cheery emails and phone texts. Please pass on my condolences to Peter and family. I hope you are managing okay. Janice

[pontygirl in reply to bruddery]

Hi Janice

Good to know you got out to Algarve, it didn't happen for us sadly.

Yes I have pictures of her Beach, we will possibly still visit later in the year and have a Coffee in her Coffee Shop and walk the Beach !

I will pass on you're Condolences to the Family, as you can imagine it's devastating for them all.

Yes my husband knew there would be tears if the worst happened.

I will miss her more than I can say, and Tears are never far away when I talk about her..

Bless her she got a book for me at the November Meeting in London, she knew I was gutted I couldn't attend..

Hubby did say to go, but I couldn't justify leaving home for 2 nights in a hotel whilst he needed Care..

Our daughter Sarah would have looked after him, but it was early days.

He was still having Morphine at the time and I just trusted myself to give it to him.

No longer do patients stay in Hospital for 2 weeks after major Surgery.

He was home after 4 days hardly able to move...

Now I regret not going to some extent, and hubby wishes I had gone.

We always think next time, this has taught me a lesson.

I'm just outside Bristol on the Coast , thus I would have needed to stay night prior and night of the Forum.

Good to hear from you Janice, we will both miss her..

All the Best

Maria 😊

[bruddery in reply to pontygirl]

Sorry to hear of all your other difficulties- we don’t really give our health much thought until we have a real need! I hope your husband is on the mend. I actually live in Ireland. We had hoped to go back to the Algarve last October but due to health issues I couldn’t go and yes Lesley had requested the universe help me too!! She ALWAYS thought of others giving support whenever and wherever she could. However we are going in April and like you I will walk the beach and maybe if I get the chance- meet Peter in the beach cafe in Port Au Vau. I will raise a glass to her for certain. Lesley had posted a picture of us at her favourite beach cafe - such a lovely lovely lady. Thank you so much for the post. Best wishes Janice

[pontygirl in reply to bruddery]

Thank You my husband is getting there Day by day.

Do enjoy your trip in April, that will be nice.

Lesley was very inspirational and friendly, lots of folk will miss her..

I'm Welsh, live in England but my Grandmother was born in Dublin and there is distant family in Kilkenny..

Take Care

Maria...

[Helen1952]

Lovely words Maria

Lesley will be sadly missed on this forum she was always so positive and encouraging.

Sending you much love xx

[pontygirl in reply to Helen1952]

Lesley was Lovely, Vibrant, Positive, Honest and I feel lucky to call her My Friend...

Yes the Forum will miss her Posting, and Always Encouraging..

I think we are both 1952 ladies?

All the Best

Maria xo

[Tico]

Hi Marie. Thank you for sharing your beautiful memories of Lesley and your unique friendship with her. Some of us on this forum never had the pleasure of meeting Lesley in person but a lot of us on here certainly had the benefit of her wisdom in her posts and replies to us. She will be a great loss to this forum and I know a lot of people will feel her passing very deeply but With I do not think lesley would want us all to dwell on her passing but for us to believe that one day that their will be a cure for all Mpn's whether it be Et,Pv or Mf. It is such a pity it couldn't have happened in lesley's lifetime. God bless you lesley, sleep tight. My condolences for your loss Marie and also her beloved Husband and family,may you find peace knowing she is at peace. God bless tina.😢♥️♥️

[pontygirl in reply to Tico]

Thank you Tina

Yes I believe Lesley would want us to celebrate her life and remember her for her guidance and kindness to others in time.

For now her family need to mourn her passing, and lay her to rest...

Yes MPN's need research and this Forum is a Lifeline to many.

Take Care

Maria 😊

[Tico in reply to pontygirl]

Yes indeed her family need to mourn on her passing. She must have been one brave lady to keep it close to how unwell she really was. Also to you Marie for all your difficulties you and your Husband have had to endure over the previous year.I hope 2020 brings a turnaround for you and your Husband and your up and coming venesection.tina.xx

[mhos61]

That’s a fitting tribute Maria.

I know Lesley’s PV had progressed to MF, but I am shocked by the suddenness of her passing. A black cloud has descended today.

I never met Lesley, but I know through her posts that her thoughts and support were always with others. I’ll remember her for brightening the day of forum members with her uploads of insightful poetic verse.

May she rest in peace.

[pontygirl in reply to mhos61]

Hi Mary,

Thank you for the kind thoughts,

Lesley was inspiring to many.

Yes her passing was sudden, I knew she was unwell some weeks before we lost her but !!

It was all very sudden and shocking for her family.

The overwhelming sense of loss, however a little comfort here in essence, that she didn't suffer months of illness that would have been dreadful for Lesley and her Loved Ones..

I spent my entire Nursing Career in the Hospital environment, nothing is worse than watching a patient slowly fade away and the look of desperation on Loved Ones faces day after day..

If I could have the choice I would prefer to bow out as Lesley did..

Life is rather ironic at times, my husbands mum was slowly leaving us aged 89 years..

Her youngest daughter of three girls, came to Somerset to visit her mum..

She had a Heart Attack (MI) at the wheel of her car and slowly left the road into a ditch, not a mark on her and no other vehicle involved...

She was 61 years of age, dreadful shock for all the family..

My husband learned over the next few months that his sister knew nothing at all about it..

It was those left behind that suffered with the sudden loss.

His mum's passing was not so kind sadly...

Given a choice I would prefer to depart quickly, rather than put my Children through a long drawn out illness, watched that scenario far too many times over many years of nursing..

I am immensely grateful to have known Lesley, and I will never forget her bonhomie...

Yes her sprinkles of Sunshine to the Forum will be missed by all, of that I am very sure..

Yes may Our Sand Dancer 💃🏻Lesley

Rest in Peace, to watch over her Loved Ones...

All the Best

Maria..

[socrates_8]

Hi Maria...

Yes, a very sad piece of news indeed...

We shall all miss Sand Dancer's little pieces of humorous prose, poetic verse and wonderful wee characters she often placed on the Forum to share with her MPN brothers & sisters...

Of course she shall be missed... and especially more so by those who were closest to her...

Best wishes Maria...

Steve

ox

[pontygirl]

Hi Steve,

Yes Lesley's family are hurting very much so...

Her poetry and sense of humour was excellent along with her pictures and characters which you mentioned...

She had a wonderful capacity to listen to others, and never missed a silent pause!

I knew her Antipodean Brother's would respond, along with many others of the MPN Family.

I will put a short post on Mates, the importance of helping each other creating bonds of friendship to fellow MPN'ers and the need for Worldwide Research into MPN's.

We both supported a Vessel taking part in the Fastnet Sailing Race with the money going to MPN Research...

We need to work together to raise awareness, we are today's sufferers may there be more Research to make it so much easier for future MPN patients throughout the Globe.

I will Support your Cycle Challenge in Australia in Memory of Lesley, my Lovely Friend would approve..

All the Best

Maria xo

[Kelly2]

Hi Mary. What a wonderful tribute to your friend! I am in tears reading of your close friendship. I know how hard it is to lose close friends and relatives. Life seems really emptier without them. May you live a long life to remember her. Love and hugs

Kelly

[pontygirl in reply to Kelly2]

Hi Kelly,

Thank you for the kind reply much appreciated.

We have lost a sister and friend, her family have lost so very much.

I know how Lesley loved them all so very much and her beautiful granddaughters have such huge adjustments to be made.

Her children adore her and Peter her husband, has lost his soulmate.

Our hearts go out to them, my husband knew how upset I would be, if the worst happened.

She has left a huge void for me, simply a friend.

This is on a different level for her family....

I will shortly go fly my Red Kite on the Beach and talk to Lesley and think of her Loved Ones..

Maria x

[katiewalsh]

Hi Maria, thank you so much for your beautiful tribute to Lesley. It must have been difficult to write. It’s such sad news and you broke it to us with grace. It’s especially hard to lose someone so vibrant, positive and supportive. And I’m sorry for your losing a friend who clearly meant a lot to you. Try and remember the good times & feel better knowing how much brighter you made her life. Katie

PS Please pass on my condolences to her family.

[pontygirl in reply to katiewalsh]

Hi Katie,

Thank you for the kind thoughts, yes it was difficult to write and took time.

I wanted it to reflect the Beauty and Essence Lesley so very easily created.

Her sense of Fun, Compassion and her dedication to her Family...

I had the benefit of time, knowing she was unwell, not thinking we would lose her.

We wanted the Sad News to reflect the person Lesley was.

We will all miss her and give thanks for knowing her, of that I am sure..

I will pass on you're Condolences and I'm quite sure Maz will ensure her Family read people's thoughts on Lesley.

Dan her son, expressed to me how his Mum enjoyed the Forum and helping folk.

I have a Red Kite to fly today on the Beach for Lesley 😍

All the Best

Maria..

[Pollygator]

Thankyou so much for posting. I think Leslie might be right about calling to the universe. How many of us on this forum unknowingly called out and happened upon this family who support each other through the good and bad. I hope you and all Leslie's loved ones feel the wave of love from all parts of the world today.

[pontygirl in reply to Pollygator]

Hi,

Thank you for the kind reply, I agree about the Universe aspect.

When I was first diagnosed with ET, I cried in my Shower to myself.

I didn't want to discuss it with my family.

I found the Forum and two special ladies found me, the rest is history.

I live in the South West 300 miles from Lesley in Newcastle.

Distance was never an issue for us our friendship just grew and flourished.

Lesley was a Very Special Lady 💃🏻

Take Care

Maria 😊

[MFBMT2011]

So sorry to hear this. I met this bright spirit in London last year having read her many helpful posts over a long period. She will be missed here. Please pass on my condolences to her family.

Chris

[pontygirl in reply to MFBMT2011]

Hi Chris

Thank you, I will convey you're Condolences to her Family.

Yes she will be missed here and by all who knew and loved her...

All the Best

Maria..

[stillkicking]

Hi Maria,

Very sad to hear of the passing of Lesley "Sand Dancer". Our kindest thoughts to you and to her other friends and family who will be greatly missing her.

I always enjoyed seeing the little thumbnail photo of Lesley went with her posts and comments, whilst I never knew her in person, there was something about that little portrait that expressed a great love and joy of life, and a warmth and positivity that couldn't help but make one feel happy. We were so lucky to have her with us on this forum, "Sand Dancer" was such a lovely name for her, and a really beautiful image to take with us through life.

I will think of her when I hear the sea,

and catch the cry of the gulls.

And the sand beneath my toes

will ask my feet to dance!

[pontygirl in reply to stillkicking]

Peter,

What beautiful words, only to be expected from your good self my lovely friend.

Yes that thumbnail picture does conjure up thoughts and images of Lesley perfectly.

You know the story of my tag (Mary) Lesley suggested some wonderful versions of my correct name Maria.

All lovely tags involving my true name, with a tiny picture.

Lesley was extremely creative, she sent me a picture of both of us, each of us with a small grandchild in our arms at Easter last year Beautiful...

She had such talent in many areas, only you Dearest Peter can conjure up that beautiful image of her dancing 💃🏻 with the sand between the toes.

Like the image of the Lady with the Red Umbrella captures your imagination and mine!

I have already expressed to Steven that her brothers from the Antipodes would post here.

She always referred to you Both as, "Our Boys from Down Under" she also appreciated our lovely Biggles !

We will all miss her and like you Sand always brings her to mind.

I have miles of Golden Sand to walk on here.

I will go fly a Bright Red Kite and feel the Sand beneath my toes, and gaze upon our Sky and talk to Lesley out in the great Universe of Life, and today is perfect for it.

The sky is Blue the Sun is Shining and there is a Breeze as Always!

Lesley would approve of that, she loved the Beach, Bless Her 💃🏻😘

~~~~~~~~~~

I believe we will remember Lesley in many ways, my inner circle has lost 2 members in 9 weeks sadly...

I will PM you here.

Maria xxxx

[Mica11]

So sad to hear this news. Thank you for posting Maria and giving your thoughts on your special friend. Lesley was one of the first to welcome me here 2 years ago. There was always a caring, a sunshine and a bit of fun and humour that shone from her posts. A very special lady. My condolences to those who knew her better than I and of course to her family. Dance on lovely lady!

[pontygirl in reply to Mica11]

Hi,

Yes that was Lesley always full of Compassion, Humour and could brighten the dullest of days.

I remember telling her that the weather was awful here in the UK, she sent me a picture immediately of 2 glasses of Wine with the Sunlight shining through the Glasses.

The caption read, " jump on a flight tomorrow, come have some fun in the Sun " how I wished we could have just gone at that time..

That was Lesley always optimistic and supportive, kindness in abundance..

Maria ☀️

[Stevesmum42]

I am so very sorry to hear of the sad passing of Lesley Thank you for being strong enough to post that moving, loving heartfelt tribute to an obviously warm caring special lady.

I never met Lesley , but always read her upbeat cheery posts, and had several responses from her over the years which were always positive and cheering.

Her photo showed such a beautiful smile which in itself was uplifting .

My deepest sympathy and condolences her family, friends and of course yourself. The very special people who have touched us leave a vast chasm which cannot be filled. But her beautiful soul will live on in the hearts of her loved ones.

With special thanks for your very sensitive post.

I do hope you and your husband have improving health.

Sandy x

.

[pontygirl in reply to Stevesmum42]

Hi Sandy,

Thank you for the lovely reply, yes Lesley was Everything you mentioned.

She could turn the Darkest of Days Bright and her smile said a thousand words.

One very Special Lady that will be missed by many..

My Post had to be Sensitive to do justice to Lesley our honest Friendship and of course Lesley's Family..

The bottom has fallen out of their world, those of us that have lost our mothers will remember those raw feelings, the pain that doesn't go away for a long time.. The sound of your Mum's voice in your head, all the emotions that come with it, and possibly trying to keep some normality in front of children, grandchildren...

Lesley's children are facing all of the above along with their Dad.

Us on the Forum are secondary to their grief, but one day they will read it all.

I wanted it to be Sensitive, it had to be Sensitive and Warm just as Lesley was in life 😍

I will of course pass on Condolences to her Family.

All the Best

Maria x

[Wyebird]

You were so lucky to know Lesley. Keep that thought close to your heart and let it help ease your pain of her loss.

[pontygirl in reply to Wyebird]

Hi,

Yes I am lucky to have got to know Lesley, I'm so sad we didn't have more time.

However the time we did have was absolute quality time, priceless...

We have all lost a kind, warm, understanding lady.

My heart goes out to her family naturally, they all have much to adjust to..

Thank you.

Maria.

[azaelea]

What beautiful words, Maria, in tribute to your dear friend Lesley and ours on this Forum. Although I didn't know her I read her posts each time and the picture you have painted of her as such a caring ,loving person has brought many tears whilst reading it. My heart goes out to you and her lovely family at this sad,sad time. Love and prayers for you all to God and the Universe. Please pass on my condolences to her husband and all the family. I send wishes also for your husband's full recovery and for your better health. My 56 year old son had a quadruple bypass in late 2018 and I can sympathise with the anxiety you had. I am pleased to say he made a good recovery. Love,thoughts and prayers.Fran xx

[pontygirl in reply to azaelea]

Hi Fran,

Thank you for the kind reply, much appreciated.

I will pass on you're Condolences to her family..

Good to hear that you're son is doing well..

All the Very Best

Maria x

[JediReject]

Many Thanks Maria for your moving and heartfelt tribute to your close friend Lesley, please accept my condolences.

I am truly gutted to read of Lesleys passing. Like many I never had the honour of meeting in person but we were in touch now and then and it was instantly apparent what a positive , caring soul Lesley was. . . RIP Lesley.

In Sadness - Chris x

PS. Whenever I hear Tiny Dancer by Sir Elton John it always reminds me of her. . . . .

[pontygirl in reply to JediReject]

Hi Chris,

Always good to hear from you, wish it was under better circumstances.

I agree many of us are truly sad at losing Lesley, none more so than her Loved Ones.

One very Special Lady was Lesley and she will be greatly missed by all.

I agree 'Tiny Dancer' does bring Lesley to mind, how very appropriate..

I realise you don't post very often, good to know you keep an eye on what's occurring here.

You may recall you mailed me early in 2019, about a reply I drafted to CCSIAL who was quite desperate at that time.

You so kindly approved of my response to him.

Well he got his wish to see his 75th Birthday, September 30...

We became friends and corresponded outside of our wonderful Forum.

He lived in USA as the months past from the initial contact in January, I had regular contact .

You're words, " top guy" he most certainly was.

He lost his brave battle 9th Dec 2019..

His wife is lovely and kept me up to date with Al's funeral on 16th Dec in Illinois, USA...

I received a beautiful letter recently telling me just how much the Forum had helped and thanking me for my support of Al throughout his final months..

Just goes to show how very important this Forum is,

He wrote that desperate plea for help, we read it & responded.

Again a Sad Loss, I'm grateful he had his Birthday Wish.....

Lovely Lesley was a Bolt out of the Blue sadly, never to be forgotten.

I flew my Red Kite Sunday afternoon on the Beach here, with thoughts of Lesley dancing 💃🏻 in my head.

I'm guessing you would have had the Sunshine and Breeze on your coastline too..

I'm with you on Elton John and Tiny Dancer.

I have most of his Albums and "Candle in the Wind" also feels right for Lesley..

Ahh music 🎶 and memories are wonderful things...

I sincerely hope you are doing as well as you possibly can...

All the Very Best As Always

Maria xo..

[Inca]

Hello Maria,

I read with deep sorrow your post about Lesley.

I cried a great deal that day.....she was a great friend and help to me,especially as we moved on to M F from PV.....all on P M as we met only once,tho I live in France I am originally from North Yorks and know well the Newcastle area Lesley spent part of her life in.She touched our lives with her zest for living,her beautiful smile that lit up her lovely face,her wise words and friendship.,that has kept me going thru my bad days.

Please would you give my heartfelt condolences to her family,they must be utterly shattered at losing such a beautiful lady.

I hope too you have a better 2020 health wise ,we must try to be like Lesley and live our lives to the full .

Very Best to you Maria. Sally

[pontygirl in reply to Inca]

Hello Sally,

Yes I agree with you, Lesley had that capacity to understand and help folk as needed...

I'm so glad she helped you during the process of becoming MF the follow on from PV...

Personally I have just graduated from MF to PV too..

Lesley was to be my guide in PV, I miss her hugely...

As will many others on the Forum

Lesley had her own brand of Compassion, Diligence and Humour a Generous Soul...

I will pass on you're Condolences to her Family, thank you for your good wishes for us, much appreciated ....

All the Best to You

Maria .

[Inca in reply to pontygirl]

Thank you Maria for your reply and that you will pass on my condolence.

I read Peters last book a few weeks ago...I am from the North East ,not Newcastle ,but North Yorkshire,worked often in N /C so always have an interest in that region.I met Leslie for the first time at the N/C forum 20 18 it must have been,I could not meet with her as hoped at the London 20 19 ,tho we were in U K,but 'baby sitting ' our daughters horses and dogs......so regret that opportunity now.Some how ,I expected Leslie to be there always for me and everyone else whose lives she touched.

The loss of her has kicked me into living the life left to me....I have been in a 'down ' phase,back in my studio now even tho I cannot keep going as long as I would like .Think of her encouragement every day and that magic smile .I know you have lots of problems,yet you have taken time answer all of us, incredibly thoughtful of you,Thank you,Wishing you the very best to manage caring for your husband and for your own health.

Sally.

[Cja1956]

My condolences to you and her family. I never met her (I am in the US), but I always read her posts and her positivity and encouragement touched people all over the world. So very sorry for your loss.

[pontygirl in reply to Cja1956]

Hi,

Thank you very kind, yes Lesley was a rather special lady.

Encouraging all who needed it, I was indeed lucky to have her friendship.

We supported each other as and when needed, I miss her hugely...

I have spoken with her family and conveyed the Condolences...

Kindest Regards

Maria...

[P-O-T-S]

That’s truly terrible news! I only Coeck in from time to time. My condolences to her family and lovely friends! I feel truly terrible now, as she reached out to me a few months ago as we live in the same town, I wasn’t having the best time dealing with certain things and was more concerned with my own feelings than making new friends that might understand more of what I was going through. My loss! I’m truly sad to hear this news. It’s great to see she had such great support from her family and friends. Bless you all 💕

[pontygirl in reply to P-O-T-S]

Hi Paul,

You & I met & sat near each other at the Newcastle Forum 2018..

I'm sorry to hear you have been having a difficult time, none of this is easy for sure and you are quite young..

I'm confident Lesley would have understood that you were not up to connecting with folk at that time..

Lesley was very wise and understood we all sometimes need to contemplate our situation.

I say with a smile 😊 she would not hesitate to say after a while, " come on we can do this ehh"...

I supported Lesley with my Nursing Knowledge and Life in General.

She supported me through a lot of difficulties last year.

If I was down, out would come that phrase, " you can do this ehh"...

Paul, Lesley would wish you well, as do I now ...

Sometimes it helps to share, if we are honest it's generally the good folk on here that understand a situation better than most.

We are all in this Exclusive Club, even though we wish we were not.

Having said that there is a wealth of knowledge here..

Thank you for the kind thoughts about Lesley, it's been a huge shock to everyone...

All the Best

Maria 😊

[Mufftreacs]

Such a beautiful tribute to ‘Sand Dancer.’

So sad to hear that such a lovely person had lost their battle with MF.

My heart goes out to all Lesley’s family and friends.

I do not post often as I live in Australia but read all the posts. It is a great comfort to know you are all out there.

Kate

[pontygirl in reply to Mufftreacs]

Hi Kate,

Thank you for the kind words about Lesley, they will be appreciated by her lovely family in time..

Lesley was a Very Special Lady and my Dearest Friend...

Kate, I believe you and I have briefly chatted on "Mates Forum, Steve Australia " ?

If I am correct you moved from UK to be near your daughter?

As you will have read I have had quite a year 2019 and ongoing.

My husband had a sister pass away suddenly during Advent 2019.

Yesterday 21st January his eldest sister passed away in Berkshire.

Two sisters in 8 weeks, for me it's the Third Death of Females that are close to me.

They say it comes in three's do they not.

If I am correct about you, I believe Steven told you my life was somewhat difficult.

I did ask him to convey that to you as I haven't posted on Mates for some time etc..

The Hole in my Bucket Scenario 😊

Thank you for the kind thoughts of Lesley and her Family...

Take Care

Maria x

[Mufftreacs in reply to pontygirl]

Hi Maria,

What a lovely reply to my post. I truly felt close to tears for you and your terrible losses recently.

Yes, I moved out here to be near my two daughters, my son and 7 grandchildren.

My husband died when he was 52 and slowly but surely, the family all moved out here. I came much later but love it out here.

Steve is a great guy and my partner Jerry, and I are trying to become part of his Charity. He is an amazing support to those of us with MPNs in this part of the world ,

If you would like to talk to me at anytime, I am happy to chat and have a

very sympathetic ear. I do know what loss and a long battle with an MPN is like. You could always private massage me if you are technical. I am not too good in that field!

Things will get better, I know they will, Lesley will always be with you in your memories and with the special friendship you had, I am sure you had many,

Best wishes,

Katie.

[JojoWonder]

A beautiful tribute. She was obviously a very special person. Sending my condolences to her family and a big cwtch to you x x

[pontygirl in reply to JojoWonder]

Hi JoJo,

Thank you for the kind post, yes Lesley was a Special Lady that I will Always keep close in my Heart..

Her beautiful family have lost so very much and unexpectedly...

It was the last thing I was expecting until I sensed," All was not as it should be"...

You are obviously Welsh and yes I needed a Cwtch.

My children grew up with Cwtches and now the small grandsons understand Cwtch 😊...

Maria xo

[Mazcd Partner MPNVoice]

These are such wonderful comments about our lovely Lesley, I will collate them all and have them sent to her husband and family, as I know they will appreciate reading how much Lesley meant to us all.

Best wishes, Maz

[Wyebird in reply to Mazcd]

Oh how lovely. I think it also brings to mind that I unfortunately must nominate someone to post on my behalf should anything unfortunate befall me.

[piggie50 in reply to Wyebird]

Absolutely Wyebird. I spoke to my daughter about this on Saturday about doing this for me.

[EleanorPV]

Lovely words Maria

Lesley will be sadly missed on this forum. She was part of what makes this forum work. Compassion to our blood brothers and sisters makes such a difference. Most of us need that special friend, who gets it.

Sending ehugs to everyone xx

[pontygirl in reply to EleanorPV]

Hi,

Thank you, I agree we all need a Special Friend if lucky, who understands this Minefield we are all attempting to Navigate..

Lesley's wonderful Demeanour and Generosity of time made her such a wonderful asset to the Forum.

I consider myself lucky to have known Lesley outside of the Forum Environment.

I miss her hugely, but my heartache is nothing compared to her Dearest Family..

Best Wishes

Maria xo..

[harleydavidson]

So very sad. Thinking of you and Lesley's family.Love Mel xxx

[pontygirl in reply to harleydavidson]

Hi Mel,

Thank you for the kind thoughts, much appreciated by myself and Lesley's Family of that I'm sure..

Take Care

Maria xo

[Aime]

Brave post, sending you and everyone who is grieving as many E hugs as I can. Thinking of you all and thanking you for making me realise what a fantastic person Lesley was. People like that are never forgotten and will always be with their loved ones, in their memories and in their hearts and will never go away. Aime xx

[pontygirl in reply to Aime]

Hi Aime,

You are so very correct, a lady like Lesley will never be forgotten..

Memories stay with us forever, and Lesley lives on in her Children and Grandchildren..

We were lucky to have glimpsed Lesley, our Sand Dancer 💃🏻

She had so many facets, her endearing quality was, Careing for Others and helping wherever she could...

We have all lost a Special Lady of that I am positive..

All the Best

Maria xo

[Jlah]

Dear Maria. What a lovely tribute to a lovely kind compassionate and inspirational woman who will be greatly missed. Jacquie x

[pontygirl in reply to Jlah]

Hi Jacquie,

Thank you for the kind words, much appreciated...

Yes we will miss Lesley's great Enthusiasm for Life and her sense of Community Spirit on this wonderful Forum...

All the Best

Maria x.

[lizzziep]

Very sorry to hear this. What a sad start to the year for you and all her family and friends

xx

[pontygirl in reply to lizzziep]

Hi,

Yes we will miss Lesley hugely, she was a Beautiful Soul that Cared about her Family first and foremost as it should be of course..

"A Great Loss for her Loved Ones"

She also encompassed those that needed support on here willingly..

Maria x

[babbittybumble]

Hello Maria. I never met Lesley but read all her positive posts. . Please send my love to her family and friends. Bye Gill

[pontygirl in reply to babbittybumble]

Hi Gill,

Thank you Lesley's family will receive your Condolence..

I'm sure all her friends are reading the messages of Love and Condolence.

Maria...