Memories

This is 'Kev the Gerbil' a mate of 'Roland Rat'. He was bought as a gift for Philip by a work colleague some 29 years ago.

Kevin and Philip were buddies, they shared the pushchair, meals and toys, but after a short stay in hospital in 1987 Kevin came home without Philip.

Philip was born with quite a serious heart condition and sadly died in Gt Ormond Street following surgery to correct a fault. That day, 22 May, is etched in my memory and I annually re-live the day as it unfolded....some years are more painful than others.

The hours that followed became days, which became weeks, then months and now years. The pain of loss has dulled, but the ache never goes away.

Kevin has been a companion to others but only very briefly, he will always be Philips Kev he now spends time on a shelf along with another special friend....FredBear, my teddy.