As part of the latest edition of The Suttonian, we included a section containing recent publications from Old Suttonians and the wider SVS Foundation community. One of those books, I’m fine, thanks provides a poignant account of loss, grief and redemption by Old Suttonian Chris Doveton-Gerty (1955 L).  Chris wrote the book following the death of his wife Anne from the rare genetic disease of Friedreich's Ataxia. As well as describing the emotional journey that followed her death, the book focuses upon Chris’ rediscovery of hope, faith and love; intended in part as inspiration for others in overcoming life’s struggles.

It was therefore heartening to learn that the mention of his book in The Suttonian had prompted the widow of a fellow Old Suttonian to purchase her own copy. Sadly, last year Wendy Hardwick lost husband Cecil (1945 M) after 65 years of marriage. Cecil’s obituary appeared in the magazine, alongside those of his brothers Anthony (1946 M), Richard (1943 M) and Robert (1940 M). The death of all four brothers within the space of 18 months was understandably hard for Wendy and the rest of the family. Having read I’m fine, thanks, Wendy then sought to get in touch with Chris to pass on her own thanks for the help that his book has provided in her own emotional recovery.

She wrote “I was deeply moved to read Chris’ devastating experience of Friedreich’s Ataxia suffered by his beloved wife, Anne and the desperate bereavement that he was left to face alone. Reading this at the time of my own bereavement was very moving and humbling. Hope, and his Christian faith, lead finally to his brave recovery, which I hope will lead me in time to new pathways. Life, however hard, should be treated as a gift, and this book is a very worthwhile read, giving an unusually honest account of a very personal and unexpected experience.”

With current circumstances taking their toll on us all, and with many struggling with their own experiences of bereavement at this difficult time, the overriding message of hope derived from both Chris’ book and the resultant impact it had on Wendy should serve as a heart-warming reminder of courage and resilience. Equally pertinent for us, it reinforces the importance of community – something as simple as a magazine article can be so powerful in bringing together two otherwise unconnected members of our community.  We wish Wendy all the best and thank both her and Chris for bringing this story to us.

Chris’ book I’m fine, thanks is available on Amazon here.