Uncle’s death made star take stock of his life

FORMER Wales and Lions captain Gareth Thomas has revealed the coronavirus pandemic has made him take stock of his life following a death in the family.

Thomas’ uncle passed away and he wasn’t able to visit him in hospital because of restrictions due to Covid 19.

The 45-year-old says the whole experience has caused him to reflect upon the need for the process following a death to be made easier to avoid extra emotional duress.

It’s also motivated him to get his own will sorted out once lockdown is over.

“My uncle sadly died alone in hospital as we weren’t allowed to visit,” said the former Bridgend and Cardiff player.

“It was heartbreaking to think of him on his own – and then all the formalities that had to be dealt with, such as the funeral, sorting out his will, and organising probate. It was all extremely difficult, and made an already tough situation a lot worse.

“The topic of death has never been talked about so much. It’s led us to almost desensitise the issue.

“In some ways, this could be seen as a positive. Death is something we’ll all go through at some point, and feeling comfortable to talk about and prepare for it can bring you peace.

“The pandemic has definitely made me sit back and take stock of my life. You just don’t know what’s around the corner, and it’s made me realise what my loved ones will have to deal with when I pass.

“It’s motivated me to make it as easy for them as possible. Once lockdown has lifted and it’s easier to get it witnessed, I’m going to sort my will out. That part’s incredibly difficult at the moment due to socialdistancing rules.

“Death is incredibly stressful – especially if it’s the first time someone has had to deal with a death. It can leave your head all over the place.

“The unnecessary formalities around the whole industry just have to be made simpler. We have to find a way to make it easier.”

Reflecting on the pandemic, the 100-cap star added: “It’s a tough time for everyone and there’s probably not many people on this planet who haven’t had a family member or a friend affected by this.

“There is almost like a sense of community in knowing that people are all going through the same thing.”

Gareth Thomas was speaking on behalf of Farewill.com, the UK’s largest will writer and death specialist.