FA Vase match sponsored in memory of Sarah Elizabeth Tomkinson

• Saturday 19th September 2020

I am sponsoring today's game in memory of my wife Sarah who died of C19 on 25th of April this year. Mother to Tess and Marina, Sarah was a bright, vivacious, gregarious woman when she was diagnosed with a rare dementia (Picks Disease) at the age of 44.

Sarah then spent over 10 years in a care home in Borehamwood where she eventually died. Sarah's death was made all the more difficult for us, as, having visited her daily we were unable to do so for the last five weeks of her life due to this horrible virus, that has taken so many, forcing lock down restrictions.

Sarah was an outstanding teacher and head of the Arts Faculty at Verulam School in St Albans when she became ill.

She had also been a comedienne and member of a comedy group , Women With Beards in the 80s, along with Louise Rennison.

Sarah had a wicked infectious laugh and and was full of humour and fun.

Sarah had little time for football...she was a Portsmouth supporter!!

Sarah would've been 57 on 14 September, last Monday, and as C19 has robbed us and many others of the opportunity to say proper farewells and celebrate her life, today's game is an opportunity to gather some friends, reminisce, a watch a game...and have a few drinks!

I'd also like to remember all those who have died of C19 or are suffering the curse of dementia and hope that families and friends get to celebrate the lives of their loved ones properly at some time.

Stay safe and observe social distancing as there will be Celtic Arsenal Spurs Man U and Liverpool fans in attendance (Foxes are fine). Enjoy the game. Enjoy a drink. Enjoy the day.

Be not sad she is no more, rather, be happy she was!

David McLean

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