MUM

Happy birthday to Mum—the woman who can turn “I’ve got a slight headache” into a full medical investigation while simultaneously insisting she’s perfectly fine despite clearly needing professional attention herself. You ask whether I’ve eaten, remind me to take a coat and still provide instructions for journeys I’ve completed hundreds of times. You can detect a change in my voice within three syllables but somehow never hear me saying, “Please don’t tell anyone.” Your concern is relentless, your advice is unavoidable and your ability to produce food without being asked remains unmatched. You’ve spent years worrying, helping and quietly holding everything together. I may not always follow your advice, but I’m incredibly lucky to have somebody who never stops giving it. Love you, Mum. Please stop worrying x