rivers2cross

April sees a brand new music release dedicated to the memory of Laura Hopkinson with 100% of the profits raised by every sale donated to MacMillan and St Oswald’s Hospice. These two charitable organisations, chosen by Laura’s family, provided her with great help and support. All funds raised will help them to continue to do their valuable work. Shining Star is a three track EP with the lead track written about wonderful Laura x It is available to pre-order on Clear Vinyl, CD and Download. I hope as many people as possible will, support this release and help me raise as much money as possible x

Losing friends to bowel cancer is devastating and never easy at the best of times. The death of Laura hit me particularly hard. Sadly, I never got to meet Laura in person, but the nature of social media these days allows you to make and form amazing friendships, which I did with Laura. She was the most special, kind, generous and beautiful soul, who I felt nothing but love and admiration for. She is greatly missed 💔 Her two young children Ivy and George and the rest of her family remain in my thoughts during such a devastating time x

I first came across Laura and her friend Lucy on their idiotsguidetocancer page on Instagram, which Laura later took on herself after Lucy died and it became the livinglifewithlaura page. These two ladies navigating bowel cancer intrigued me and after Lucy sadly past I struck up a friendship with Laura. She always did everything she could to support my fundraising and raising awareness about bowel cancer, but more than that she was just an amazing friend x

Laura got behind every crazy venture I launched. I could always turn to Laura if I had an idea that I needed some extra input with. Earlier this year I put together The Final Post music release and Laura was immediately up for being part of it. I knew things were becoming more and more difficult for her, but she still came through for me, which I was so very grateful. I know there are many people out there who have been on the receiving end of Laura’s generosity and kindness, and she and her family have done so much themselves to help and support others in so many ways x

Her courage and determination to live for as long as possible for Ivy and George and the rest of her family knew no bounds. At the same time she made time for so many other people. She was loved by so many, a real testament to the amazing woman she was. Laura was just 42 years old. Another young life taken by bowel cancer 💔

Bowel cancer is the most awful and cruel disease and causes so much heartbreak. The community formed as a result though, is a wonderfully special, warm and supportive bunch of people. I truly have never known anything like it. My own life is very different as a result. Laura did as much as anyone within that community and was hugely inspirational.