A sad start to February 2022

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As noted in the January Album, things moved quickly. It was just over a month since a definitive prognosis was given. After close to a week in Lismore hospital after being cared for by Béatrice for weeks, Jon spent the last few days in the lovely Wedgetail Retreat with Bea by his side. Tributes aplenty flowed in from around the world and people shared stories of Jon who had clearly touched the hearts many people during his full life.This podcast, including an interview, is an example

February 1 - back from teh hospital. The plan is to bring & for Bea to have help to care for Jon But plan change, and a Murwullimbah hospice has a spare bed. He transferred there on the 2nd. A much better choice! But visitors Amy and Patrick wishing to be there as Jon arrives join Paulie and Stephen instead. An early drive home in the morning Feb 3 - Paulie & Stephen come back down over teh border to the lovely Wedgetail Retreat set in the rainforest in the hills behind Murwillumbah
. . Although Bea and friend Kate slept in the room and cared for Jon, they got some relief. Asako and the kids were there too. Whilst catching his breath...
...Paulie sat with Jon . Feb 4 - Stephen caught up with some work. This day multiple visitors turn up. Semi-conscious Jon's friends spoke, play instruments, and said their farewells. One resident dog & one who joins hospice carer on her shifts kept Paulie company Feb 5 - at 12:12 am Jonathan died in Béatrice's arms with Kate beside her. Asako, Hanah, Chris and Louise arrive to sit outside his room
Jon's death does not go un-noticed outside the family. Feb 10 - it's time for a private cremation at the Tweed Valley Cemetery. A farewell picinic was in order. Asako and Hanah arrive Champagne is poured .
With Congolese musician Franco playing, a toast is made to Jonathan before he heads off into the facility . . .
And it's to the Tweed Art Gallery for lunch Paulie and Stephen spend the night in Murwillumbah & then head home at 5 am for work