11 years ago I received a simple phone call from Janet’s eldest sister Rebecca asking if I knew of any home carers.
I replied, ‘Yes, me.’

Therein began my humble acquaintance as Manfred’s carer grew a special friendship with such closeness I endearingly called Janet my ‘Chinese-British mom’.

Janet entrusted me with what was most precious to her. Manfred, their home & Otto. Her three jewels. 

Knowing how private she could be with personal matters at home and at work I am honoured she welcomed me ‘in’.

I am struggling to convey the lost of Janet and shall do for a long time ... words are failing me as I recall all the years spent in her home taking care of Manfred; my children Alexandra and Hubert growing up alongside Otto, playing with him and all the plush toy versions Janet has of him dotted up and down the staircase and around the house.

She worked tirelessly at IMO, often 7 days a week but always found time to bring pretty baskets filled with treats for me and my family. Even with so much on her mind she remembered you.

I am eternally grateful for Janet, she helped me and my family progress in London.

Life was busy and diaries full as she promoted my skills and work ethic, introduced friends and clients expanding my portfolio. She believed in me.

Janet has taught me so much about life, how kindness and generosity brings personal happiness cancelling out any sadness we may have, the thrill of a good deed, helping others makes the world a better place.

She was full of wisdom and gave great advice ... how to eat healthier, how to be economical, how to be street smart so people don’t take advantage, and how to plant vegetables.

I loved watching her spend time with my children at her allotment, showing them how to prepare the soil, collect stones and sow the seeds.
Such wonderful memories.

2017 my family and I returned home to Poland, Otto came along for the ride and stayed 2 months whilst Janet was taking a much needed vacation.  My father spoiled and loved Otto so much when he returned to England he looked more ‘black pudding’ than sausage dog. Janet visiting my family home was and will always be a highlight of our friendship. Without fail she came bearing gifts for all. My dad received a giant cradled bottle of whiskey that he will always cherish.

Such happy times.

3 months ago I received another call from Rebecca, this time it was asking to care for Janet.
My heart sank hearing why.
Without hesitation I flew over determined to help her fight, get better, recover so she could continue enjoying her retirement.

..,

She wasn’t given a fair chance to fight.
She deserved more time.

I keep waiting, hoping she’ll come home after a hospital appointment so I can make her something to eat, comfort her, massage her hands, watch over her as she sleeps.

There has been many a shining moments the past few months, getting to know Rebecca listening to her speak Chinese everyday and talking about food and travel. Her two favourite pastimes.
Meeting her son Andy, Janet’s precious nephew who is so much fun and his wife Collette. Seeing how much Janet’s friends and neighbours loved and cared for her. Everyday, especially the weekends the doorbell would ‘Ding-Dong’ constantly (sending Otto into a barking frenzy) with care packages and food parcels dropped around the clock. The fridge was never empty always filled with homemade dishes prepared with kindness.

I am so very grateful for the past 3 months, the chance to be with Janet daily. Even at her weakest she was still teaching me to be positive, caring about me, worried about me worrying about her. Telling me all shall work out, and to go through life happy.
I shall try my best Janet but right now it is very hard. You mean so much to me.

This is not goodbye ... just goodnight.😔

Love you forever,💝

Anna 💕