Today is Father’s Day.
I won’t lie, beyond buying a card and arranging a gift for my dad, I didn’t think about it at all. However, I woke to a couple of messages from friends and family wishing me a happy day or telling me they were thinking of me.
It was only at this point that I realised I, of course, am a new member of that club. The realisation that I am a member, but will never be able to share it with my daughter was a sobering one.
The best part of our short time with Tilly was being able to cradle her close to us, showing her just how much we loved her. We were lucky enough to have the time to take some pictures, to give us a record of this period.
One of these images, along with a personalised card, was Charlotte’s choice of Father’s Day gift for me. I don’t think I’m overstating it to say that this was the best present I could have received, and it will take pride of place at my bedside.
We’ll never forget Tilly, and we’ll use moments and occasions like today to give our own tributes. I feel sure that doing this will help us get through anniversaries and poignant occasions a little more easily.
It’s been a teary start to the day, but a happy one.
Happy Father’s Day to my own dad, Billy. I know that he’s felt our pain over the last few weeks, yet has stayed strong. I appreciate this more than he might realise.
Nothing but love.
The only man in the room 