A letter to… My Uncle
I first wrote this letter when I was 17 and my uncle was recovering from another bout of treatment. We were asked to write a letter in the style of The Guardian feature for a college assignment and I knew immediately I wanted mine to be to him. I could never find the words to tell him how proud I was of his bravery- and regrettably I never showed him the letter. I hope he knew.
I never imagined four years later I would be adapting it to read at his funeral.
Uncle David,
As I’ve grown up you’ve always been there to offer me advice, make me laugh and occasionally be my taxi service! Throughout this time and even now we still share one ever lasting passion- a love of Colchester United.
When life has presented its challenges, as it has, this one common factor has remained to keep us positive and provide some light relief.
At the age of 7 you took me to my first football match along with dad and Alice. There was never a doubt I would be a Colchester United fan. And when I recall the recent history and achievements of our beloved football club you’ve always been a part of it. My first away trip to Sheffield United, Upton Park, The FA Cup tie at Stamford Bridge, Promotion at Yeovil, Derby Days at Ipswich and Derby Days at Norwich all factor.
You taught me how to bet, that you should always take free pens and for me and Alice to bring plastic cups and paper plates round when we watched the football. These things may seem small but they carry big lessons- anything can happen- no matter what the odds, always be prepared and life’s too short to waste on washing up.
Whether our boys in blue and white were winning or losing, you always taught me in the great scheme of things, despite how it might have seemed like the most important thing during that 90 minutes, it was not the end of the world if things didn’t go our way. And we know that more than most.
You’ve probably had more operations and bouts of treatment than Col U goals scored this season. But no matter what, you always remained the same courageous, hilarious Uncle who took it all in his stride. Battling hard, brave fight, fighting for survival and keep the faith may be some of the most overused clichés in football, but to your strength and resilience against this evil disease they cannot be used enough. Your uplifting outlook and quiet dignity makes us all so proud.
You were taken from us too soon but despite the tears, I have an array of wonderful memories that will help us keep your memory and spirit alive.
Alice and I are so lucky to have had you in our life. I know there will not be a day that goes by where we will not be reminded of you in some way. So for all you have said and done- thank you.
Up the U’s.
To infinity and beyond.