A Year On...
As this weekend marks the anniversary of Ben Hollioake's death it seems an appropriate time to reflect on the year that has passed. A year ago this weekend the death of such a bright young cricketer and likeable man shocked and devastated many people, leaving a huge loss for the cricket world.
As we near a new cricket season Ben is still in my thoughts and continues to be missed. I would love to see him lining up for Surrey this season but there is some comfort in the way his name lives on through the people he has touched.
One way this is happening is through the Ben Hollioake fund set up by Adam Hollioake, who has some amazing fund-raising planned for this year. The funds raised in Ben's memory are donated to CHASE Children's Hospice Service. I think this is a wonderful way to honour and remember Ben and assures that he will continue to have a positive effect on people's lives. I have great admiration for all those involved with the memorial fund and its website (www.benhollioake.com). I hope that it will continue in its success.
My prayers are with all of Ben's family and friends at this time, for whom the hurt cannot fade. I must express my gratitude to the Hollioake family members who took time to write to me, I really do appreciate your kindness.
I feel blessed to have a role-model in Ben Hollioake and he is still as much of a hero and inspiration to me now as he has ever been. I am grateful to him for making me realise the importance of a positive outlook and appreciating all that I have. I know that Ben will never be forgotten, however many years pass.