Mum’s Eulogy

“Anyone who’s lost a parent or will lose one will understand that this is a unique loss. Parents were the first to hold us when we were born, the first to love us, and the first people we loved.

Mum for the past eight months of her life whilst she was battling terminal cancer chose to do so in a private manner. She was a very proud woman who was adamant that she would do things her way and I respected that.

I also want to take this opportunity and make special mention to the Peter McCallum Cancer Centre & Mercy Western Palliative Care. Mum’s treatment and care was second to none and they gave her the best quality of life possible. Please know that in the end she was pain free and comfortable and that’s what is most important. Today’s not about us, it’s all about Mum.

I remember this one particular weekend back in October 2005. Daniel was interstate with work and unable to help me get ready for a bodybuilding competition. Mum bless her soul, came to my rescue and volunteered to help. Poor thing, I had her up at a ridiculous hour of the morning to apply my first coat of tan and let me tell you she saw parts of me that she hadn’t seen since she gave birth to me. I don’t know who was more embarrassed her or me. That day she was my official backstage helper. Bodybuilding competitions are notoriously long so I suggested she bring along a book to read to pass the time. At the end of the day I made mention that she hadn’t read her book and her reply was “bugger reading, I was surrounded by almost naked male bodybuilders. I had plenty to keep me entertained thanks.” I re-iterated that this was not why she was here, but all she wanted to know when the next one was on and could she come again.

No eulogy can put into words the 36 years I’ve had with my Mum. And nor should it. I will miss you terribly Mum. I always have and always will love you.”

– Lia Halsall