Allie's life and mine run on parallel tracks. Yesterday, my father passed away. My brother called me early yesterday morning to tell me. His passing was expected because he had been very ill for three years now but was deteriorating fast in the last few weeks.

Two weeks ago we said our adieux on the telephone, he did not want me to come again because he wanted to protect me and himself from his rapid deterioration. What a dreadful year, first my beloved husband, then my stepbrother and now my father. Even though I knew it was only a question of days for him, his death has hit me hard and is traumatic.

I am exhausted by all the grieving. Fortunately my youngest daughter will fly with me to the South of France to attend his funeral on Thursday. More crying on the menu. With the death of my father, it is the end of an era.

Thank you for listening to me. I know I can rely on you.