My wife’s sudden death was so shocking but her soul chose it

MY wife Sara died six years before Annie, at just 58 years old. The shock was profound and deep.

We used to joke that in my dotage she’d be pushing me round in a wheelchair, and I never imagined she’d go before me. It wasn’t just the 17 and a half years between us; she was so vibrant and beautiful.

Coming home from the hospital without her, I felt a huge wave of grief. I adored Sara, and admired her too. She organised everything for me – I even used to call her “head girl”! She had been an actress and had given that up to support me. For Sara, family came first. She was incredibly close to our children, Will and Verity, and together we had such a close, loving bond.

Her passing happened so suddenly. February 7, 2009 was a normal Saturday morning, we were sitting up in bed when she froze mid-conversation with an “oh”. Then she lost consciousness. She died that moment. When I saw her again, she looked so serene. I knew her spirit had departed, so, touching her hand, I said, “Goodbye, love,” knowing we would meet again. She died because her soul chose to. Sara decided to go when she was still glamorous and beautiful. The way she went, so peacefully and quickly, was right for her.

Of course, I grieved for Sara and Annie. But I tried not to grieve for too long. I just send them love. I know they’re in a beautiful, happy place, free of pain.

LOVE Bill with Sara