Tributes

Well it's been reasonably quiet here on the Alright Tit homestead after all the "ooh eck” excitement of the big BBC news, as you may know, I've been on the hunt for guest blogs from El Mac's homies, and now there's not just one but two popped up. I’ll publish the next one in a couple of days, but for now, here’s some fine bloggery from Lisa’s kid bro. Enjoy…


A view from the inside

Right then. I’ve been trying to pluck up the courage to do this for a year now, so it looks like I’ve finally got there. It has been three years since my last guest post on this blog and I believe I’m well overdue another one, and more importantly, I definitely owe it to my Sis to make a contribution, even if she isn’t around anymore to edit for me! So for those of you, who haven’t already gathered it, allow me to introduce myself. I’m Jamie or James, Lisa’s Bro. I literally have no planned structure for this, so I have no idea where it’s going to lead, but stick with and we’ll see how it goes.

We’re over a year on now since Lisa moved upstairs. All of the “firsts” are out of the way, Birthday’s, Crimbo, and Anniversaries etc etc. And although they have generally been immensely wank, we have tried, as a family, to enjoy them as much as possible, which is exactly what Lisa would have wanted. Without wanting to toot our own family horn too much, I think that on the whole we’ve done a bloody good job too. We’re all dealing with what we have to deal with, the reality of the shituation that has been presented to us all. We have our moments, of course we have our moments. We’ll continue to have our moments, which is only natural, but life does go on, as we are learning, the very hard way. It’s not the same, it is worse of course. Any life without Lisa Lynch in it is going to be worse, but life is going on nonetheless. In spite of our shituation, we’ve done a lot of lovely things over the last year, and a lot of lovely developments have happened, but I’ll come on to them more later on I imagine.

Not too long ago, it was the one year anniversary of Lisa’s funeral. I thought it would be a good idea to read through the eulogy I prepared for the occasion, before I put finger to keyboard. Turns out that wasn’t such a good idea though, as it pretty much wrecked me before I started. To be fair, that was the first time I’ve read it since the funeral, so I guess it was to be expected.

The funeral itself was a remarkable occasion. It was horrible in many ways, for blindingly obvious reasons. But on the other hand it was remarkably uplifting, and made all of her family feel ridiculously proud. I like to think that my Sister would be pretty proud of me too though, for needing to get a kebab on my walk back to my hotel after the wake! She wouldn’t have called it a wake though. After party would have been more like it for her. That after party was a great occasion, even though it was an occasion that we never wanted to need to attend. The location was great; the food was great but most importantly the people were great. Only Lisa could have had a wake where people left saying “that were a fuckin’ crackin’ night out were that”. We know that’s the way she would have wanted it too.

Very recently, we’ve had yet another example of just how cruel life could be, having lost a very close family friend and ultra-long term colleague/business partner of my Dad’s in a tragic car accident. Keith Poynton was one of the finest people you could ever meet, and that is in no way any kind of emotional over-reaction, as anybody who knew Keith, knows exactly what I mean. This tragic loss has yet again left us all questioning, why such bad things happen to the best, and in Lisa and Keith’s case, the very best people. Whilst we at least had chance to prepare ourselves in some way as to what was eventually going to happen to Lisa, Keith’s family didn’t have that “relative” luxury, something that I personally just can’t imagine. We can obviously relate to the loss they are feeling now, albeit in very different circumstances, and as a family we can, will and are, going to be able to offer support, just in the same way they have to us. Keith’s funeral was another remarkable occasion, but one everybody wishes would have never been needed. It was dreadfully sad, of course, but uplifting at the same time. A marquee at Derbyshire’s Cricket Ground filled with hundreds of people immaculately dressed (just as the great man himself would have been), wonderful tributes and eulogy, and even a lovely toast made by my Dad. The sheer quantity of people in attendance was just a measure of the size of loss for the Poynton family and their friends. But the kindness on display by all in attendance restored your faith in humanity, just like it did at Lisa’s funeral. As a close family friend, Lisa obviously knew Keith very well herself, and in Keith, she has been joined upstairs by the very finest company she could have wished for.

So, back to the life goes on bit. We’ve had to keep ourselves busy to keep sane, but in keeping busy we’ve done a lot of nice things between us, as a family. You know, weekend breaks, holidays, nice meals, family days out, that kinda stuff. Lisa liked nice things, and she’d stick a rocket up our jacksie’s if she thought we didn’t continue to do nice things, even in her absence.

As much as I’m a hypocritical fuckwit for despising Social Media, yet using it every day, it has been bloody good way of keeping in touch with Lisa’s mates. That has been really important for me and just the knowing that I’m connected to these people has actually provided me with great deal of comfort. Seeing some of Lisa’s mates has been great for us too. We were fortunate enough to go on a family holiday last September to California and even more fortunate to spend a day in LA with the wonderful Ant. This day meant a hell of a lot to us, as I imagine it probably did for Ant too. Not because we’re such delightful company and because she really wanted to spend time escorting a family with whining jet-lagged nearly two year old boy around LA, but because I can imagine she felt a bit closer to Lisa with us being there. That whole holiday was great for us and I like to think Lisa would have been looking down on us taking Corey round Disneyland, over “Buddy-Owl Bridge” (long, family story, but a significant family moment) and then pushing him around our Villa’s swimming pool in his famous blow up car that she and Pete bought for our holiday in Spain together, a year earlier. We deserved a bloody good break and a bloody good break is what we got. We only wished it could have been ALL of us.

As the dreaded first Christmas crept up on us, Ant was back over in the UK and so she and the (also) wonderful Tilly arranged to come and see us. This meant that they had the ultimate privilege of entering the centre of the universe… Derby. I can only imagine that a visit to such a City as Derby was a lifetime goal for them both, as it would be for any resident of LA or London. But for us it was great to be close to some of Lisa’s very close mates again, and I’m sure that for Ant and Tilly to be able to come to the City and house where Lisa grew up, was an special moment for them too.

Lisa has missed out on a lot from a family point of view. She’d absolutely love to see her nephew Corey and some of the things he comes out with now. He still remembers her too, which is the most important thing to us. He recognises any picture of Auntie Lisa and regularly kisses them. We say goodnight to Auntie Lisa every night from his bedroom window and then Corey blows her a kiss and sometimes even sings her a song. She’d love the fact that he knows that we must say “boo” when we say Nottingham Forest, and she’d be even happier to see him singing “Auntie Lisa is the best, is the best, is the best, Auntie Lisa is the best, she hates Forest”. The “she hates Forest” bit came by accident really when I couldn’t think quickly enough when Corey requested an Auntie Lisa song one night at bed time. But it has stuck like mud, and I’m not going to lie to you, I’m not even nearly ashamed of it! Now Corey is talking more and more, I dread to think what kind of trouble Auntie Lisa could have got him in.

There have been so many moments where my natural reaction has been, call my Sis, or, I need to tell Lisa about this. Corey would say things or do things that I would have normally share with Lisa straight away. I just can’t do that anymore. Then there are things that only the pair of us would probably ever get excited about. For example, I recently discovered that the lead singer of one of our favourite 90’s bands (Audioweb) sings the theme tune to Rastamouse (check it out, it’s genius) on CBeebies. I always had a hunch that his was the case, but when I finally discovered it, I reached for my phone ready to tell my Sis, only to remember I can’t just call her or drop her a text anymore. That feeling, ladies and gentlemen, is the definition of a motherfucker!

Nobody else would appreciate that completely useless piece of information quite like my Sis would. Then there’s the love of music that we shared. I’ve bought loads of albums that I know Lisa & I would have loved over the last year, but I’ve hardly listened to any of them. That will come with time I’m sure though. The first one I bought was Queens of the Stone Age – “…Like Clockwork”. That was something I loved on first listen, and I knew Lisa would too. But she just ain’t knocking around anymore for us to talk about it. The amount of times the phrase “Lisa would have loved that” has been said by anyone in our family is a little bit ridiculous to be honest.

Aside from the family stuff, she has missed a lot going on in the world. What she probably wouldn’t have expected to have missed was Derby County getting good! Alright, good in relative terms then. This has obviously denied her the wonderful opportunity to royally rip into Chris Ward after Derby beat Forest 5-0 the other week. She has a funny way of coming back to haunt people does our Sis! With a lot of luck, there may even be a family showdown next year between Derby County and Pete’s Everton. I think even Pete would be rooting for Derby if that was the case! Mum, Dad and I have enjoyed going to the match much more again this season, not because things are going well on the pitch, but mainly because we’ve moved our Season Ticket seats to Lisa’s favourite stand. It just feels right again, and I personally like to think that when the seat next to me is empty that Lisa is sitting in it.

As Toby recently updated, there has been more news that Lisa has missed, but would be delighted to hear. The news that the BBC will be officially adapting Lisa’s book, The C Word, for TV was not a surprise as such for her family, but the realisation of it being out in the public domain got the emotions flowing yet again. I was away with work in Singapore when the press release came out, and was caught off guard a bit when I received a tweet about it from a friend. I was just in the process of wrapping up a week long workshop, and could have easily burst out into tears, but had to hold it in. It was a bit of a mad panic as I was flying home that night, but I just wanted to find out what was going on. I just wanted to be with my wife and parents, and talk to Pete. I remember messaging Pete before I boarded my flight home, and I took it upon myself to introduce myself to the one and only Sheridan Smith on Twitter, advising her that as she was playing my Sis, she was the only person to have the honour of referring to me as Arseface! She is a delightful young lady, and will do a fantastic job playing Lisa.

I can’t describe the pride I felt that day when the press release came out. I was so pleased for Lisa, yet so sad that she won’t get to see the finished article. Although I like to think in some way she will. Pride was the key emotion, but I’d be lying if I said all the pain didn’t come flooding back with it. I know it was the same for the rest of the family too. I can’t imagine how we’ll be when it hits the screen, but I’m pretty sure once again that the main emotion will be pride. I just wish so much that we weren’t even in the situation to be having a TV drama about my Sis, but on the flip side I’m so bloody proud and excited that the world will get to see how brilliant she is. I’m also so, so pleased that the hard work of so many people is going to come to fruition. Lisa spent a lot of time working with people like Nicole Taylor (writer) and was even in contact with Sheridan Smith herself. The fact that Sheridan has agreed to play Lisa would make her brilliant smile beam from ear to ear, because that is just what she wanted. It’s a bizarre situation for our family to be in, but if you hadn’t gathered already, it’s a bloody proud one too. And when Corey is old enough to understand fully, we’re going to have something to show him to make him fully appreciate just how special his Auntie Lisa really is. At which point we’ll probably be getting a letter from his School Head Teacher advising us that he’s being going round calling the other kids Twatclacker!

As you can see, although life on the inside is very tough at times, it is still going on. This next 12 months will be no different, as will the 12 months after that, and so on and so on. That is just the way life if is now, forever more. Just because life is continuing, it doesn’t mean that Lisa isn’t still an integral part of it. Pete has his mahoosive Bike ride from London to Paris with is mates in aid of The Lisa Lynch fund at Trinity Hospice (so pull your finger out your arse and sponsor him), then me and Pete are going to attempt to win the Trinity Golf day, with a couple of my mates soon after. We’ll continue to spread the word and thanks to the people that helped Lisa out so much. No doubt there will also be holidays, weekend breaks, nice meals, summer days out at Cricket etc etc. Myself, Leanne and Corey are even (hopefully) moving house soon. So things aren’t standing still, they are no better, they are no easier. They can’t be, because Lisa isn’t here. But we plough on as a family, because that is what we have to do. We’re not moping around feeling sorry for ourselves, but as I mentioned earlier, we do have our moments, individually and together. We didn’t need this shituation for us to realise how close we are, that was always a given. But for me, the important thing is that we think about Lisa every day, talk about Lisa everyday, do things that Lisa would like, eat things that Lisa would like, watch things that Lisa would like, go places that Lisa would like, see people that Lisa likes, and generally do the main thing that Lisa wanted us to do… quit fucking around and get on with it!

So there is a little view from the inside for you I guess, I don’t know if you’re still reading at this point, but if you are thank you. If you take away anything from this post, let it be this… for some, completely fucked up reason, bad things will continue to happen to good people, so we need to make sure we make the most of everything we do, and the people we do it with. And if you wanted to take anything else away from this post, please remember that my Sister is fucking brilliant, still! Very proud little brother signing off.

Until next time,



Adios.

90 comments:

Hannah said...

Somehow, I've only just found this blog and I'm so sad that I'm too late. I'm going to enjoy (if that's the right word?) reading it all from start to finish. You sound like such a lovely brother and so very proud of your sister.

Unknown said...

Same here. As a 2nd time around er at this "bullshit" I grab onto life, today I was sitting in a blue Bell wood marvelling at its beauty!!so sending you love lisa and will be watching sunday love lisa hill xx

Greatful survivor said...

What a Lady! You and all your family must be so proud of Lisa. Thank you for sharing from someone that has been through the c-word x

Nadine said...

You did a good job with this blog (slightly emotional right now). Lisa sounds like an amazing, ambitious, driven woman! My mum battled breast cancer so it's a very close subject to me and family and I can only imagine what you are going through! Amazing to hear that Pete is doing a huge cycle to Paris for The Lisa Lynch fund, I will def donate and repost this blog on my blog. xxxx

Anonymous said...

I've found this blog through watching The C Word....in fact I'm watching it now. What an amazing woman she IS!
I lost my Mum to bowel cancer over 14 years ago and I still miss her as though it only happened yesterday. So I know the journey you as a family are going through & will be going through from now on.
I just wanted to let you know that I know how that feels and I think you are all doing an amazing job.
Take care
Tracy Edwards xx

Unknown said...

Just watched the C Word by BBC - my husband and I were in tears having been through chemo and seeing it shown as it really is...
Thank you Lisa for the honest account of cancer, the treatment and the way you felt going through it all.
You are an inspiration to us all!

Unknown said...

Sat here right now, 3 years after my own cancer, watching Lisa's story that we recorded on Sky. So many things that I could relate to (especially the toilet problems lol) gotta say this has been one of the most honest cancer stories I have ever seen. Thanks Lisa, wherever you are.

Adam

Anonymous said...

Just watched the story of this remarkable lady on BBC 1. Ali I can say is WOW. What courage, strength and determination she had throughout. My family has just lost our Dad to this god awful bullshit too. Lisa, Pete and their family are an absolute inspiration. You are all in my prayers xxx

w66pie2 said...

Just saw this inspirational lassie on TV what a great help for other sufferers she told it as it is will Defo buy her book God bless Lisa

grannie sally said...

just watched the C Word - what a lovely lady what a fantastic family - and what a lovely job Sheridan Smith did for Lisa.
I hope her family are proud of the programme - they should be it was compelling watching and my heart broke watching what the family and Lisa had to endure.
I pray i never have to go through that with any of my family but if i do i will remember Lisa forever.

:) said...

Just watched the c-word on bbc and it was so powerful and even more powerful at the end when I saw the date. my grandpa died 10/3/13 and it just hit home. But like you life has carried on, we've supported each other through it and everyone other family illness that has followed.

Thank you, this has really helped

Tea said...

Just watched your story Lisa and now reading your blog oh and book on order too, you have made me smile and cry all at once, and just reading your brothers input made me laugh out loud to imagine your nephew going round calling kids Twatclacker, I wish in a way I had never heard of you and your awesome family cos then you would be here but for people like me facing our own bullshit Thank you may God bless you and Keith partying in the clouds x

Unknown said...

Wow what a woman! I Have just watched the program on BBC and then read this blog and to say I am overwhelmed is a massive understatement. You are a lovely, lovely family (even if you are Derby County fans!!) and you are rightly very proud of the lady that Lisa was and still is. Thank you because I have taken a lot from what you have shared with us tonight and I will quit fucking around and get on with it!!.... Come on your reds!!!!
From Jo in Nottingham xxx

Unknown said...

Wow what a woman! I Have just watched the program on BBC and then read this blog and to say I am overwhelmed is a massive understatement. You are a lovely, lovely family (even if you are Derby County fans!!) and you are rightly very proud of the lady that Lisa was and still is. Thank you because I have taken a lot from what you have shared with us tonight and I will quit fucking around and get on with it!!.... Come on your reds!!!!
From Jo in Nottingham xxx

Flo said...

Wow. I've just watched 'The C Word'. It was utterly heart breaking, inspiring and humbling. A remarkable girl. Well done xx

Anonymous said...

I watched the Sheridan Smith adaptation tonight. It was very close to our family too as we lost a dear family member almost two years ago to breast cancer which also spread to bones and brain. My cousin Pauline did the whole family proud with her attitude to the cancer. She did a lot of campaign work to raise awareness. She fought courageously and is such an inspiration. Just like Lisa.

Sheridan did Lisa proud. It was a brilliant adaptation. I have now downloaded the e-book.

Lisa's story will live on and hopefully reach a lot of women out there.

Unknown said...

I have just watched the C-Word and want to say what an amazing, inspirational, funny and sassy girl Lisa was. You all must be so incredibly proud of her. She showed the world how you should grab life and bloody live it and love it. Such a strong lady.....just wow xxxx

Unknown said...

Omg?..I just watched the c word on TV...broke my heart!!
I was diagnosed with Hodgins Lymphoma 2 years ago and went through 6 months of chemo and 3 weeks of radiotherapy ... How I laughed about the wig!!... Can so relate. Wish I could have blogged whne Lisa was alive.... Your a wonderful brother and what a family she had to support her .....respect and love to you all... My husband says I was a twat at times through my treatment...how rude.....but to be fair I was a it of a shit....I wish your sister had beaten it but that Bloody "C" takes control...I am sure she is up there and close to you all ...xx

Unknown said...

Omg?..I just watched the c word on TV...broke my heart!!
I was diagnosed with Hodgins Lymphoma 2 years ago and went through 6 months of chemo and 3 weeks of radiotherapy ... How I laughed about the wig!!... Can so relate. Wish I could have blogged whne Lisa was alive.... Your a wonderful brother and what a family she had to support her .....respect and love to you all... My husband says I was a twat at times through my treatment...how rude.....but to be fair I was a it of a shit....I wish your sister had beaten it but that Bloody "C" takes control...I am sure she is up there and close to you all ...xx

Unknown said...

I have just watched The C Word... & all I can say is WOW... A true inspiration.. All off you guys are amazing. I am grieving for a much loved & missed family member at this moment in time. This has touched me in so many ways...happy, sad emotions..even anger...

Lisa & everyone of you are an inspiration... Love to you all xxx

Unknown said...

Omg?..I just watched the c word on TV...broke my heart!!
I was diagnosed with Hodgins Lymphoma 2 years ago and went through 6 months of chemo and 3 weeks of radiotherapy ... How I laughed about the wig!!... Can so relate. Wish I could have blogged whne Lisa was alive.... Your a wonderful brother and what a family she had to support her .....respect and love to you all... My husband says I was a twat at times through my treatment...how rude.....but to be fair I was a it of a shit....I wish your sister had beaten it but that Bloody "C" takes control...I am sure she is up there and close to you all ...xx

Unknown said...

Omg?..I just watched the c word on TV...broke my heart!!
I was diagnosed with Hodgins Lymphoma 2 years ago and went through 6 months of chemo and 3 weeks of radiotherapy ... How I laughed about the wig!!... Can so relate. Wish I could have blogged whne Lisa was alive.... Your a wonderful brother and what a family she had to support her .....respect and love to you all... My husband says I was a twat at times through my treatment...how rude.....but to be fair I was a it of a shit....I wish your sister had beaten it but that Bloody "C" takes control...I am sure she is up there and close to you all ...xx

Unknown said...

I watched the c word tonight and if Sheridan Smith was a able to depict one 10th of Lisa's personality accurately then what a woman she must have been. Sheridan was amazing and the rollercoaster between laughing and crying was bloody exhausting. Lots of love to all of Lisa's family, you were clearly blessed to have had someone so incredible in your life.

Unknown said...

I have just watched the programme and I feel so emotional. I just had to tell you that I think your sister was one of the best and I can understand how proud you all are of her.
Sheridan Smith played Lisa with such dignity and strength and it was one of the most inspiring things I have ever seen.
May I wish you and your family the best of everything and thank you for allowing us into your lives to witness what was obviously a very difficult time. You will all be in our hearts and thoughts.

Unknown said...

How did I only just get to know about this fantastic, very brave beautiful woman? The film about Lisa's story is hugely inspired and although I didn't know Lisa or her family you made me all realise that life is too short to keep dwelling. You are all awesome! I'm off to by Lisa's book soon, your a true inspiration girl, wished I'd have your courage and to have known you. X

Jean said...

Wow, what a lady (girl). Inspirational!

Jo said...

I was widowed 5 years ago at the age of 40. My husband would have loved reading this blog - when he found it difficult getting around he found a lot of enjoyment chatting on social media.
Thanks to you all for sharing - the drama on bbc last night was very moving - it's good to know we can all help each other along on this journey .............

Lisa said...

I watched the C word last night. I cried and smiled my way through it. So much of Lisa's story is mine. What a gift she has given to people like me. It brought back all the pain, fear and heartache of a cancer diagnosis, but also reminded me of the joy that you get from friends and family and the importance of love and laughter to see you through. Thanks, Lis. Lots of love to your wonderful family and friends. From another Lisa xxx

Unknown said...

Wow firstly what courage Lisa had from the start to the end. I love the fact your entire family put the Bullshit on its head and still continued to enjoy life and didn't allow it to beat the life from you all.
Lisa was such a role model to all Bullshit suffers.
My nan passed away from Bullshit and I really wished we could of had such courage to carry on with life instead we allowed it to take over.
Well done Pete for doing the Ride from London to Paris I will be sponsoring.
My daughter and I will be doing Race for Life for Breast Cancer Care in a few weeks in memory of my nan and I will have Lisa in mind too.
Thank you for allowing your own experience to be shared with the world.
Sheridan Smith did you proud Lisa.
Kelly Gough xx

Unknown said...

Wow firstly what courage Lisa had from the start to the end. I love the fact your entire family put the Bullshit on its head and still continued to enjoy life and didn't allow it to beat the life from you all.
Lisa was such a role model to all Bullshit suffers.
My nan passed away from Bullshit and I really wished we could of had such courage to carry on with life instead we allowed it to take over.
Well done Pete for doing the Ride from London to Paris I will be sponsoring.
My daughter and I will be doing Race for Life for Breast Cancer Care in a few weeks in memory of my nan and I will have Lisa in mind too.
Thank you for allowing your own experience to be shared with the world.
Sheridan Smith did you proud Lisa.
Kelly Gough xx

Unknown said...

I watched the c word last night and I was so glad that it was aired to show the true life of one woman's battle. Lisa was a truly inspirational woman that she spoke so freely of her battle. Her family and friends must of been so proud of her. I myself have true admiration for Lisa and her story and want to thank her and her friends for sharing it in such detail.
Of course I shed a tear and with not knowing anyone or suffered from the ' bullshut' I hope that for those who are going through what Lisa did is helping them see a light at the end of the tunnel. She was a beautiful person and watching such a real life situation so many face it makes you have a whole new perspective on life!
I want to thank Lisa, Peter and her friends for sharing her story.

Sarah x

Unknown said...

Wow wow wow,Lisa what an amazing woman.
Thank you for sharing your journey.
Sending much love to all your family and friends.
Much love
Karen Blake x x x x

Unknown said...

A www James what an amazing brother you are !! After watching The C Word I raced to find this blog & of course have ordered the book too . Lisa was hilariously funny I almost feel as if I know her! Ive laughed ,I've cried she's helped people & continue to do so such an inspiration. God bless to you & all your family xxx

Unknown said...

What an absolutely fantastic portrayal of the nightmare which is 'bullshit'. I'm currently going thru it and have finished 8 rounds of chemo and just recovering from an op with radiotherapy to come. It reminded us so much of our lives over the last 8 months from the excruciating constipation to the devastation of losing my hair and also eyebrows and eyelashes. But also the positives of being so completely overwhelmed with love, humour and support from just so many wonderful people. Laughter keeps me strong and I will think of Lisa and her wonderful family too. Oh and The Marsden is the most fantastic hospital with just the best people who really do care and have time for you always, I'm blessed to be part of it and will be marching next March, go Team Worley!!

Unknown said...

Amazing truly amazing

Unknown said...

I watched the c word last night & although I cried from start to finish Im so glad I watched it. It was so nice to finally watch a true portrayal of a cancer journey on tv. My mum died in May 13 from secondary breast cancer & I had to laugh & cry at so many elements of Lisa's journey from the nhs wig to the no holiday insurance problem but most of all it brought home the importance of enjoying what time you've got x

Unknown said...

Just watching the big c with Sheridan she should be proud of her self she has done a great job and Lisa was right to ask her I am just sorry I only found this blog now as I am going through what you her brother are going through but my mum has been gone a long time it's hard but it does get better xx

Unknown said...

Just watched the C word what truly inspirational young woman,your family and close friends but be so proud to have had you in there lives, thank you Lisa for sharing your journey, made me understand more and I cried many tears while watching it x x x

Unknown said...

I watched 'the c word' yesterday night and I am genuinely moved. What an inspirational woman. The programme inspired me to find the blog she wrote and I am honestly so glad I did what a beautiful lady,she has left a lasting legacy, let her light shine on.

Unknown said...

What an amazing women! I had already read her book and was waiting patiently for the drama to air and it certainly didn't disappoint. She told it in her own way and boy did she hit the nail on the head - every word, every detail and every tear. I am fighting stage 4 bowel cancer. From day one I was told there was no cure, only control but here I am 3 years on, 6 rounds of chemo and 3 major operations but still going. Lisa's view of the 'bullshit' was inspirational. Such a strong lady and sadly taken far too young. I pass my love to all her family and friends and thank them for allowing this programme to go ahead (it must have been very difficult for them to watch) - you must be so proud of your beloved Lisa. Xx

Unknown said...

I watched the c word today and have to say what a wonderful inserational lady you are you shared your story with so many and helped so many by doing that you are now looking down and laughing at us all crying at your story!! i for one know that your family and frinds are so bloody proud of you and so they shuld be well done hunni sending all my love up above x

Unknown said...

Lisa! What a woman watching BBC tribute C-word. Your spirit is eternal...

Unknown said...

What a beautiful lady ....lost too many to the big c I loved your book and film inspiration ....my heart goes out to your family ....least you had the balls to write down or type ...Rip angel x x k x x

Unknown said...

Thank you to the family of Lisa for sharing her story. I watched the BBC movie last night and have been thinking about Lisa all day. I found it a true rollercoaster. One minute I was crying and then laughing. I feel sad that I couldn't get to meet someone who's blog and book is truly inspirational to all.

Unknown said...

Watched the'C Word yesterday and can't stop thinking about Lisa.She was a very brave and outrageous young lady.Her brave fight was an inspiration to everyone.Sharing her highs and desperate lows of the disease gives hope.The most emotional drama ever.

Anonymous said...

What an inspiration. We lost my partners mum to breast cancer in January so watching the programme was incredibly hard but seeing Lisa's face at the bottom of the blog when I went to look for it made me smile.
Thank you x

Unknown said...

Thank you to Lisa and her family for sharing her story. It moved me to tears. What an inspirational woman and she was lucky to have such wonderful husband, family and friends.

Unknown said...

I watched the 'C Word'last nght and have continually thought about Lisa and her wonderful family ever since. It was both incredibly emotional and courageous and such a truly powerful adaptation with Sheridan Smith. I feel honoured to have shared in Lisa's story thr this programme - thank you

Unknown said...

I've just finished watching this programme on the bbc I player and I had to tell you I thought it was fantastic, I was roaring with laughter one minute and in floods of tears the next... Lisa was a fantastic woman and a great role model as are you all in your love and support for her... I will be buying her book and look forward to reading it... Much love to you all x

Unknown said...

Hi There to Lisas wonderful family,

As you can imagine i watched the c word and basically gret the whole way through it. What a wonderful inspirational woman Lisa was & still is to ppl who read her blog. I hope you as a family took some comfort in last nights drama.

your in my thoughts.
Love Kat x

Unknown said...

Wow, just finished watching the C-word. What a truly inspirational woman Lisa was. Jamie - such a wonderful post that you wrote. My brother died 7 years ago and I've taken real comfort from reading your post and watching the programme that showed how much of a special relationship you have as brother and sister. So true that something so awful happening should spur people on to make the most of things. I certainly think that every day. Wishing you and your family all the best for the future x

Unknown said...

Dear Pete and all Lisa's wonderful family, I am sending you so much love. I wish I had had the privilege of meeting Lisa...what a beautiful and courageous lady...she has inspired me to face my own 'dance' with cancer with renewed strength. I will think of you all and pray for you every day. Xx Louise xx

Unknown said...

Just watched the c word and as a survivor, I have just re-lived all the emotions with Sheridan/Lisa.
An amazing lady and an amazing story.
Much love to all your family and RIP Lisa,. Xxxxxx

Frankie said...

Hi I have just watched the C word and found this blog. What an amazing women Lisa was you must all be so proud of her that she gave such a true reflection of how this "bullshit" really is. I was diagnosed with the "bullshit" 18months ago and it has been a really roller coaster of emotions. I haven't felt as brave as Lisa but I hope that finding this blog will give me some inspiration to get through the rest of the "bullshit" ahead. Thank you for sharing your journey lots of love to you all. Xx

vain fa'siân said...

After following Lisa's blog and seeing that it was made into a fantastic TV show, I feel so proud of Lisa and all of you for having the most amazing attitude to what is such a shit situation and allowing us the opportunity to be a part of it.
As an older sister, reading this post made me laugh and cry and then send a sickening text of 'I love you lots' which I immediately regret to my younger sister (it's not really our style). I can't even begin to imagine what your going through, but I don't think that's the point really, is it?
Thank-you for continuing the blog and still writing, and thank-you for making me appreciate what I've got and all the fucking amazing things we need to do in life !

Squirrel nutkins said...

Just wanted to say that I can't believe it! I worked with Lisa on Real Homes magazine (freelance sub) bet 2002/3 when she was still Lisa 'Mac' Macfarlane - I only made the connection when the article said Real Homes mag. She was such a lovely girl. Haven't seen The C Word yet but as soon as they get it on Catch up I will - some tech hitch I think. If not, I'll watch it on i player. Just utterly shocked & gobsmacked. Really liked her. Xxx

Unknown said...

Very difficult to know what to say, other than how searingly honest, provoking and yes, entertaining, this blog is. I'm sure that it will make the terrifying journey that is cancer a little easier for those who are going through it and who manage to fortuitously stumble across this (or the TV adaptation). Love from Amy x

Molly said...

Hi Jamie, ditto on everybody's comments but how brilliant you're carrying on your lovely sisters' blog . Am hoping that more men will have the courage to read it and be able to share with you their male understanding of witnessing everything you had to go through . When my aunt had breast cancer last year we all rallied round as best we could quoting all the cliches Lisa hated. 'You're a fighter' and 'it's so much more curable these days'!! But no one knew what to say to my totally besotted uncle who was scared of being left alone and who had to witness exactly what you and Lisa's husband had to whilst remaining positive and upbeat. I still don't know what to say as he must always be worried the cancer will return.

Thank you to Lisa and your entire family. Also, being from Derby myself, you will have acknowledged the love and support recently for Radio Derby's lovely Colin Bloomfield, another young inspiring bullshit victim.

Keep writing, she must be so, so proud of you.

With love
Louise x

Unknown said...

Brilliant, brave & honest......thanks Jamie, Lisa's spirit clearly lives on......

Unknown said...

Wow what a truly great woman and what a wonderful family xxxx

Unknown said...

Wow!!! It,s a strange word we use only too often but tonight as I sit myself on the edge of my bed listening to my husband snore I reflect on what I was just watched.....I use the Wow because watching for the past 90+mins I feel I have known Lisa n her amazing family like forever!!!what an amazing wownastic person she is...I myself could not imagine what u all went through but I feel an over since of thankfulness!! to have had shared such precious memories be it good times n the though...the Bullshit term is a great way to look at it as it is!!! Lisa very lucky to have amazing family to continue this inspiring blog!!! God bless....Maggie,N.Ireland xx

Heart felt admiration said...

What a true lady, a true family, an absolute inspiration to the rest of the world. A Truly truly moving story that I'm sure has made millions take a long hard look in the mirror and remember what's actually important.. Family.

Where ever you are now Lisa, the world is thinking of you and is sending such warm love to your family and will do so, forever.
Sheridan Smith...truly amazing! Delivered with a total dedication and compassion that stirred laughter and tears

Doris said...

Without giving the gory details, I am waiting for some results on some suspicious tissue taken from my nether regions. Googling it, I have scared myself stupid. I've worried about what O look like 'down there'. Then I watched the programme. Laughed but mostly cried. The message is very powerful. To take life by the balls even when it's beating you. Thank you for that message Lisa. Sorry that I forgot to utterly squeeze the most into my precious time on earth for a second. Your message hits hard. Your message lives forever x

Unknown said...

Having just watched the C-word on iPlayer, I've felt, for once to act on my feelings whilst watching it, find the blog in question and leave a comment.

Until today, sadly, I had never heard of Lisa Lynch. From now, she is up there on my list of truly inspirational people.

I'm not ashamed to say that I started crying around 10 to 15 minutes into the C-word...and am still going now. I am a known bleeding heart on the sleeve type of person, but still...

Anyway, Lisa's story and her family's story has left me reminiscing of a time in my life very similar to that of Lisa's family. My mum was diagnosed with breast Cancer when I was 20 years old, like Lisa she took in a determination that this cruel condition was not going control her and used her own coping methods to get through the following months and years. Like Lisa after the first course of treatment we were all told that she had been cured of the disease, like Lisa it came back, this time eventually bringing the liver along for the ride.

Whilst obviously the C-word is Lisa's own story, there were a lot of parallels which were reflected in my mums and my family's journey and most likely most individuals who are affected by Cancer. Attempting to get travel insurance is one memory. Striving to make the "abnormal" normal throughout. Jamie's blog post about going through all the "firsts" after the the death is something that definately speaks to me as this was exactly how I felt during that first year too

There is probably nothing I can say to any of Lisa's family or friends that hasn't already been said and it is hard to say something's without them sounding like a cliche but as a family member of a person with Cancer, I have come out the other side what I can say is that everything that is said is a comfort and will continue to be so for a very long time

Whilst my mum never took to blogging her experiences, thoughts and feelings (she barely knew how to turn on the computer never mind write on it) she often expressed them with us, hence why I feel I can relate to Lisa's experiences and that of her family. Hence, why I felt I had to come on here and comment.

Lisa is an inspirational and brave girl and this is reflected in her words and her legacy. Lisa's family continue in her trail of bravery and dignity and form one family to another, thank you for continuing to share Lisa's story

Xx

Unknown said...

Just finished watching the c word; tears and laughter in equal measure. Having lost my brother in 2006 (not to cancer), Lisa's story, as played out on screen meant a lot to me. Memories are laced with pain and joy. Lisa has left a legacy, as we all do, reminding those of us still walking this earth, that who we are and those we love are the greatest footprints we could ever make xxx

Angie said...

Like so many have already said I wish I had known Lisa before her passing. Watched The C Word, and shall be buying the book, and Lisa was such an inspiration to all women....and the whole time I was glued to it I kept wondering if the blog was still active, but I have found not just active so I can read, but still growing. God bless you Lisa, Peter, Lisa's parents in having to watch their on,y daughter suffer and of course Jamie and his family. Sheridan Smith certainly portrayed the role with sensitivity and guts. I have been telling everyone at work that they must watch it and read the blog. Will be sponsoring Peter as well. Take care Macfarland and Lynch family and RIP Lisa, you deserve to be at peace and hope you and Keith are sitting on a beach with 'shots' in you hand..... Xx

Heather said...

I've watched just the c word it was fantastic and very emotional,Lisa was a wonderful lady.

cat2015 said...

Beautiful inspirational lady The C Word drama is sure to capture hearts mind blowing story strong corouage loving young lady I lost my sister 12 years ago to lymphoma cancer my life has never been the same but just like Lisa your memories flow there the wind shine bright in the stars & shine in the morning sun each day god bless you & your wonderful family & friends xxxxxx

Dwys said...

I think what yourself, your family and of course Lisa did was not only help people know the sheer reality and truth of cancer but by reading your post give hope and a sense of normality of dealing with life after the shitty horrible death of someone. My daughter died suddenly in April 2013 and I decided to blog about it. At times it felt indulgent and depressing but reading Lisa's blog has made me feel much less self conscious and proud of coping, proud of my family and proud of the ability to continue. So thank Lisa for giving me a bit more confidence and thanks to you for making me feel normal and I guess, good, about living x

Unknown said...

I've just caught up on the C word! It was emotional,funny and heart warming all in one...i think I watched most of it though watery eyes! Lisa was an incredible lady and showed so much strength through the toughest times! I wish she'd of beat the bullshit but unfortunately that bitch always seems to win some how! Being 24 and never having a health scare I feel lucky and I can't imagine what Lisa went though but she's an incredible woman and one I will take inspiration from! Xx

Unknown said...

I can't tell you what a mark the c word has had on me. I wish I had known about lisa and her blog when she was writing it. My mum died of bowel cancer 17 years ago and went through chemotherapy. I wasn't living at home then and really had no idea what she was going through. Watching the c word was inspiring and gut renching all in one. The honesty is what hit me the hardest, Lisa is truly remarkable and her story will help thousands of people deal with this shitty disease and move onwards with their lives. I wish all of lisas family and friends such love. Thank you all for sharing Lisas story, what an incredible lady.

Unknown said...

Lisa was a remarkably inspirational woman, that has very clearly touched the hearts of so many people, being the age of 16 I didn't exactly know how well I would understand, when I watched The C Word, but oh my goodness it was the most extraordinary thing I have ever seen. Lisa shows us how you can take positives from even the worst of situations, and rather than seeing the TV version of the situation she was in, we saw the real, true version. Honestly, I feel honoured to have read her blog recently and to have had the chance to watch the programme,she is a true star! To her family, you had the most inspirational daughter anyone could have the pleasure of reading about, and although it has been a while since she passed, she is still and always will be the brightest star in the sky, as she is truly amazing.

All my love, to your wonderfully strong family,

Kirstie x

Unknown said...

I have just finished watching Sheridan Smith portray an amazing woman. How can her family even begin to comprehend losing such a beautiful wife, daughter, sister, Auntie and much more? I only hope that they can take comfort in the fact that she has left a legacy of inspiration. Thank you, Lisa, and your loving family, for sharing your story xx

Louise said...

Just watched 'The C Word' and felt I had to find the blog and post a comment to say what a wonderful and incredibly brave woman Lisa clearly was! A wonderful sense of humour too even during the darkest of times, she was an inspiration to us all! Thank you for letting her story be shared, it reminds us all of how precious life is and how we should grab it with both hands! Prayers and thoughts are with you her family, you must be exceptionally proud of your wonderful Lisa xxxxx

Unknown said...

I have just watched The C word on catchup and felt I needed to read the blog..what an AMAZING girl! I am so emotional reading your post, it's wonderful that her truly inspirational spirit is being kept alive by you all. This has really put a few things in perspective for me and I will go and bear hug everyone I love right now, thankyou. X

• Nicky • said...

How amazing is Lisa & how amazing is this blog?
I found it from watching The C Word with Sheridan Smith (who is also amazing - have I used the word amazing too much?) and found the whole thing just brilliant, in a weird way, because its so sad what happened and happens everyday to so many but also very eye opening. Well done Lisa x

Unknown said...

Well I have just watched the c word. What an amazing woman. The film helped me another. I lost a very good friend to bullwhip. And Lisa made me understand what she went through. She was 31 when the bullwhip took her from the same breast cancer that came back to her bones and brain. Thank you so much for making this into a wonderful story that will hopefully bring inspiration to woman and hopefully make people aware. What an amazing woman and family xx

Anonymous said...

Hi guys...I downloaded the C-word from BBC Iplayer a while ago but only managed to see it tonight. I was reluctant to watch it because quite frankly I had to gather enough courage to commit myself to work through the peaks and troughs of this emotional rollercoaster. The thing is...I also went for a scan recently as I felt a dreadful lump in one of my testicles. It was a very emotional and frightening moment when I discovered this 'thing' that made itself part of me. Luckily this was not the real thing and was pronounced clean. But it really made me think how vulnerable we all are. No doubt Lisa was/is and will be a legend, but can I also praise Peter, the Mcfarland and Lynch families for being so brave and amazing! You all are so incredibly inspirational! God bless!

Unknown said...

Again like many of these posts I've seen today I recorded The C Word only to watch it last night. What an amazingly heartfelt story of the battle you all went through.... And brutally honest along the way.

Myself? I personally have not suffered from cancer. I have suffered along side friends and family who have been diagnosed and then lost the battle. The support network that Lisa has given to men and women like it's truly inspirational. What a legacy to leave behind.

Sarah said...

I have just watched the C Word on BBC iplayer after having what I thought was a pretty shit day. Let's just say the emotional roller coaster I have just gone through watching the programme has put the rest of my day to bed and I feel so inspired by Lisa's, and your family's story.
I have never ever replied to a blog before but just had to write something so that your family knows that Lisa will also be remembered and is clearly causing such a storm even though she is so sadly no longer here.
Just amazing. All of you xx

Nic said...

Just watched the programme on BBC iPlayer...oh how I cried, smiled, laughed, and cried. I've experienced loss also, and 17 yrs on from the loss of my brother the pain is still there, in my heart. Reading the blog and comments shows a real sense of love and strength everyone shares and how life as you say does go on, and every single day is a new day learned. xxxxxx

Unknown said...

Just finished watching "The C word" which I downloaded to watch on my jollies but ended up bringing home with me....along with my very well travelled, unfinished books!!
I found myself uncharacteristically blubbing intermitently throughtout the 90 minutes.
One word...wowser! (Technically not a word but hey ho)
Once finished I told my partner I loved him; logged onto Facebook & told my friends in remission I love them & now drinking cider....straight from the can with Dinnerdate ont'telly! Rock n roll? Not likely! Ladylike? Hardly. But just being. And I suspect that's what life's really about.
Take care peeps xx

Unknown said...

I have just watched the C word tonight after putting it off fo so long. It was always going to be a difficult programme to watch. I thought the story was so emotional and Sheridan Smith portrayed it's sentiment so well. The life of Lisa was so inspirational and she was a remarkable woman who inspired and helped so many people in her life and her death. My thoughts are with the family and friends who lost such a beautiful women! I have also never posted on a blog before but I felt compelled to support the reasons that Lisa felt to share her life she helped so many people understand how the C word affects all of us in some way or another. x

zedemes said...

Just watched The C Word and found this blog. The programme was so well done - the acting was great and the story inspirational. Lisa was an amazing person... you must all be so proud of her xxx

Unknown said...

I have terminal cancer and after watching the C-word, it made me laugh, cry and full of gratitude for Lisa highlighting not only her story but also for those who have to watch their loved one go through all they do with chemo and the like. The whole family were an inspiration and gives courage to many like myself to say enough is enough, time to take control and make the most of what life gives you. Thank you is a small word Lisa for all you have done for people with cancer. It was a honour to read your work.

Unknown said...

I only just got around to watching The C word and hearing you were only 28 made me realise I am 27 and never checked my breasts but I am going to start as it can happen at any age despite screenings beibg later on in life. I am so sorry for your families loss. I lost my cousin last uear to ewings sarcoma and he was only 25 he was like you an inspiration and he started raising money for BCRT and his mum now carries it on. You are a truly amazing woman Lisa

Twinderelmo said...

Your sister was fucking awesome. That is all!! xxxx

shads said...

Just got round to reading this blog and am looking forward to reading the book. Lisa was and is a true inspiration and a credit to your family,shes funny and trite and has an amazing way of putting her feelings out there so you can connect with her. Im feel truly blessed and honoured to be part of something amazing and only regret not being aware of it sooner. All the best and thank you Lisa and family xx

danetta said...

I was just about done watching the BBC movie and goggled info on Lisa, my heart sank when I saw 2 years by her name, a birth and a death. Oh no, then I got SAD as I felt I had just got to know her. Rest in Peace angel.

Unknown said...

I recorded the show when it first aired but have only decided to watch it this evening. My wife, Sam, died just before Lisa on December 5th 2012, she was just 28. She died of complications from her cancer, Adreno-Cortical Carcinoma, cancer of the adrenal gland. Just like Lisa, she was a fighter, the cancer didn't' get her, it was the lung disease caused as a side effect. It's funny, people have told me not to watch The C Word as it wouldn't be good for me at this stage but I found it helped to jog memories that my brain had blocked as too painful, be they good or bad so I don't regret it at all.
Sam was exactly like Lisa, small, blonde, beaming smile and feisty as hell. She loved holidays, even though she was sick for 5 years, we went to so many places, weekends away, city breaks in Europe, honeymooned in Hawaii, and Vegas and San Fran, and even a cruise. She lived life to the full before she passed away. Even Brighton played a big part in our lives, it was where I bought our first engagement ring, and then we went back for a second after Sam lost the first!!!
After watching the programme, I wish we had found Lisa's blog while Sam was still alive, I'm sure they would have got on like a house on fire! Lisa was amazing but all of your family are amazing too, the way you looked after each other.
Picking up the pieces of your life after losing such a special person is hard, I learned that the hard way but it is amazing, as Jamie says in one of his posts, how that person seems to never be far away and still can have bearing on your life. I have been very fortunate in that I met a lovely girl who helped me when I was lost, and now we are awaiting the birth of our first child. Both myself and my partner believe that Sam had a hand in us meeting, and I know she loved kids and her dying wish was for me to be happy and she knew that meant a child of my own even though we hadn't been able to have our own. I've told her that she will be a parent through me, I just hope she can hear that!
Anyway, enough rambling from me, thank you to all the Lynch and MacFarlane family, and especially Lisa, for allowing her story to be shared and to inspire others.
Matt Williams