Michael Peart was my ambassador in Vilnius, Lithuania from 1992-1994.  I was Michael's Defence Attaché in this newly independent country.  The Russian Army, were in the process of withdrawing from Lithuania and it took them 18 months.  It was an exciting time during which Michael and I helped Lithuania to set up diplomatic and military structures.

Michael loved Lithuania and its people and remained closely associated after he retired from the diplomatic service.  He was a born diplomat and was skilled at placing ladders for other people to climb down.

It was with his initiative that Macmillan Cancer Support took it upon themselves to help the first Cancer Support Centre in Lithuania.

Michael's last request was to raise money for the St. Francis Cancer Support Centre in Klaipeda during the annual charity Fun Run and I invite you all to play a part by supporting me. 

Michael was diagnosed with terminal cancer very recently.  Before he died, Michael telephoned many of his closest friends to say goodbye. It was a difficult and courageous thing to do. Our last conversation meant a lot to both of us and I suggested that he write a letter to his very wide circle of friends and acquaintances. In his powerful letter Michael talks about the three loves of his life: Helena, his wife, the diplomatic service and Lithuania. 

He asked his son Christopher to run in the Klaipeda Fun Run on 17 May, 2015 to raise money for the St. Francis Cancer Support Centre.

I will join Christopher in the hope of boosting his funds.