I am sorry I could not be at the lecture today but Phil Fennell kindly agreed to step in for me.

Do you remember my friend Richard Buckland, he came to speak to you about his experiences in a secure unit.  Richard died yesterday and I feel bereft.  My dear friend is at peace now and no longer has to struggle with the torment he confided rarely.

There are a few things I want you to realise;

1. He very much enjoyed giving his talk to you.  He got a boost to his self esteem and I hoped it would help build his fragile confidence                                    
2. He was very very chuffed with the feedback on the website and was particularly touched by Jane Hendry's e-mail
3. He said to me what a lovely group of students you are - he was right
4. He continued to see Tom (the young boy from the unit) just as he said he would.  Tom wants to come to his funeral.
5. He did see all his children one last time.  Phil and I took him to York at christmas and they were pleased to see their Dad apparently trying to get a control over the addiction that was killing him.  They clearly loved him. 

The last months of his life were very sad so whilst my dear dear friend is no longer here at least I know he is out of pain.

Once again, thank you all for being so warm and encouraging to my boy.

See you next week

Vicky