On Thursday 8th September 2022, HRH Queen Elizabeth II passed away. A woman who has been on the throne for over 70 years. A woman who I deeply respected and admired, as not only our Queen - but also as a wife, a mother, and a grandmother.
I don't mind admitting that until about 10 years ago, I didn't pay much attention to the royal family, however, as both myself and the Queen got older, I felt myself warming to her and the wider family considerably. Her steadfast commitment and devotion to serve the people of so many nations. I would sit and wonder how she did it? Especially as she grew a older - sitting there, standing, or walking for hours, often in below zero temperatures. She was devoted to us, her people. She even showed her dedication to her duty right up until the very end of her remarkable life of service.
I'm not alone of course. Never before has a person touched the hearts of so many people - not only in our country but across the world - for such an enduring length of time. She has been our one constant, through so many ups and downs, most recently of course during the global pandemic.
As a performance coach, the way she spoke, listened and provided guidance for so many - she was the master of coaching.
As a nurse, I began to realise that over the past year or so, the Queen had lost a lot of weight, and she began to seriously slow down her life to more or less a standstill. This was no more evident after the death of her beloved Philip - her strength and stay. Whilst their relationship was often documented as a 'colourful' one, this union showed the world what a true partnership is all about: love, sacrifice and teamwork.
It will take some time for the nation to come to terms with this huge lost I'm sure. For me, I've know nothing other than the Queen, but I do feel that we are all in good hands with King Charles III. Meanwhile, my heart goes out to all the royal family and anyone who knew the Queen personally.
Thank you for everything. As she once said herself - we shall meet again ma'am.
Rest in Peace, Your Majesty.