Clare & Chris 10th February 2016

To my dear friend Marianne: It is an indescribable experience to suddenly lose someone that you love. Someone you have known for what seems like a lifetime and have even taken for granted at times because they have always seemingly been there. It is humbling to realise at this sad time, and as others come to realise their loss too, that that special person was loved and was such an inspiration to so many. That they left behind so much in you, in their children but also in their extended family and friends all over the globe. For some maybe that person left behind just a very special moment, a gesture, something they said or a smile of reassurance. For others, who were lucky enough to know them for longer, it was much, much more. That very special person was our dear friend LUIS. It's easy to forget the moments that were tough, when the heat of a moment got the better of him or a deep entrenched memory suddenly made him feel vulnerable and exposed. We are all human and the bad times are the times that make the good times so precious and memorable and make the person we love, and have now lost, so perfect! Luis was an inspiration to so, so, so many people, not just because he coped with his illness in a way that can only be admired but because of his immense compassion, genuine interest in others and ability to listen despite not always being heard. All I can say is Chris and I feel nothing but honour and delight we were some of the very lucky few in this world to have shared one tiny part of his life because he left an impact on us that won't be forgotten but will be greatly missed. I will be thinking you lots and lots, Marianne, as you adjust and pass through the open door to a new chapter of your life without Luis. Your emotions will no doubt make you feel more like a yoyo than a human being at times. I know you are glad your Luis didn't have to suffer his MS to the end but at the same time he went too soon and has left an empty void in your life. Much as you will, for sure, begin to live your new chapter of life with laughter and joy you will never forget his darling, almost cheeky smile or his words of comfort and thanks just when you most needed them. We will all walk through the open door with you, my dear friend, as it is a new chapter for everyone who was lucky enough to have known Luis. Chris & I will treasure all our very fond memories of him and his new 'George Clooney' look that still makes me smile now! Marianne, you were his inspiration, his pillar and the love of his life and he was the luckiest man on earth to have had you. I know you will treasure your wonderful memories of him forever. With love and thoughts Clare & Chris