Terry was a man who I had the privilege of knowing for the majority of my life. To me he was a coach, a colleague, a mentor and most importantly a friend. At age 16 he inspired me to become a swimming teacher and coach and I worked alongside him ever since. During this time I witnessed him alter countless children and teenagers lives for the better through swimming lessons at the leisure centre or through his beloved swimming club Thetford Dolphins. He made swimming fun, always motivated his swimmers to improve and more importantly he was someone kids could turn to and rely on.

However there was something he loved more than his swimming club; his family. Initially Linda, kel and Dan, through Terry and Linda's work as foster parents they welcomed 9 other children into their home to offer comfort, support and love to children in need. 8 of these children stayed for varying lengths of time except Tiff, who, it became obvious very quickly, was one of the family. Terry was also a grandad to Teddy and 'father in law' to Kelly's partner Ben and Dan's partner Kim.

Devastatingly, in June 2018 Terry was given the diagnosis that his cancer had returned and was incurable. In the following September a fundraising event was organised to help with Terry's medical and transport costs. I remember Terry saying he guessed £1000 would be raised, however there was a grand total of £10500. Terrys family used this money to buy him a wheelchair amongst other things and Terrys wish was that the surplus was donated to various charities, one of which was St Nicholas hospice. This would ultimately be the place Terry chose to die.

Following a rapid deterioration in Terrys health he was admitted to hospital in early December 2018, from here he was moved to St Nicholas hospice where he passed away on the morning of Thursday 13th December surrounded by his family. Although his stay at St Nicholas hospice was short they provided him dignity and comfort and gave his family privacy and support through the worst day of their lives.

I miss Terry, yet I cannot even begin to imagine the whole he has left in the lives of his family. Thankfully the support from St Nicholas hospice has continued for his family with support groups, outings and counselling. Because of the care they gave to Terry and the care they continue to give to his family they have chosen to continue raising money for the charity in Terrys honour to ensure everyone can get the care and support they have received.

Linda, Kel and Kim along with myself and 12 others will be doing the girls night out walk for St Nicholas hospice this September and we would all be very grateful if you would be generous enough to make a donation in Terry's honour.