04.03.2015
Hi Everyone,
It’s diary time again and I’m very happy to report that I’m doing very well health-wise at the moment. My platelet count rose up to over 150 last week so thank God I was able to have my treatment. So we’ll keep going forward hoping to diminish this cancer so that I can continue to be a Bermondsey boy for many years to come. There is so much more I have to do in this life not least to watch my sons growing into their new roles with such dedication.
I’m still working every day but at a slower pace and all the staff look out for me on a constant basis making sure I never overdo it and I thank them all for that. So let’s hope my next appointment brings more positive news as my treatment continues and hopefully my scan, which is due in a couple of months, brings the best possible news.
As ever, a big thank you to my medical team, my family and all of you my friends! Again you all never cease to amaze me with your kind comments and thoughts concerning both my illness and my Grandson Danny’s progress. You are all remarkable people. Danny who had the epilepsy problems has been without a fit for some months now thank God – Long may it continue. He’s a fantastic kid, full of energy who absolutely loves football and rings me up constantly when it’s on TV bless his heart.
We set up our Albin-Dyer Foundation to help the families locally and it has done that for many years now, but just once a year we expand our boundaries to those in need abroad. My friend Stevie Ali (who has been a friend of mine since our teen years) together with his good wife Trudy have just returned from Bangladesh where we have been proud to help feed & clothe hundreds of children from his village.
I had never quite realised the extent of poverty that exists there until it was explained to me by Steve through word of mouth and photographs etc. People are so hungry and so poorly clothed – it’s just heart-breaking. But just to be able to offer a small amount of help is very fulfilling and makes me feel very humble.
Here at the office we are all very pleased to see Neil back and feeling well following his recent operation. He’s going to be looking after our Mottingham Branch and I know he will do a fabulous job there.
Today has been an interesting day as once again we have been visited by some more of the new ‘doctors to be’ from Guy’s, St. Thomas’ and King’s College hospitals. These young student doctors visited today for a little lunch, a tour and an exchange of views. Here’s hoping they all turn into fine doctors, as it very clear that they are fine people and we wish them every good fortune.
We have an amazing training program at Albins for the staff and although they are all very knowledgeable, you can never learn enough. Brian Parsons one of the top funeral historians in the country, a great educator and the nicest of men has taken on that role of training for us and my thanks go to him.
It’s a good opportunity as ever to once again thank my staff for the various tasks they take on, from dealing with bereavement to individually caring for families in a way that is above and beyond their duty. Also to the staff that drive our vehicles all over the country and also repatriate people who have passed away abroad. They are often away from home for some time and I feel very privileged to have them on my team. Take care and be safe on the roads.
Lastly I would like to wish the UK Homes 4 Heroes Pride & Passion team every success with their new premises at the Surdoc Club. Good luck Jimmy, Michelle and the team – you’re doing a fantastic job – Thank you all..!!
Until next time….
Take care & God bless you all.
Barry
