Jackie Ashley wants to know what people think of her while she is still alive (Never mind the funeral – I want one hell of a party while I’m still around, 16 March). Years ago, at the end of a particularly wet and unpleasant Lake District ramble, my six-year-old son asked: “If you were to die this minute, would you prefer a slow death or a quick one?” Then I would have chosen the quick one, but I am changing my mind. Last month my partner was diagnosed with a particularly aggressive form of leukaemia. Since then we have received over 120 cards and letters from all over the world, plus numerous emails, texts and phone calls. She has touched a lot of lives during her 50-year career in women’s sport, coaching, sports politics, academic teaching, research and advocacy. People are taking this opportunity to tell her how she has made a difference, and how much she is loved and respected. “One hell of a party” it ain’t, but it is great to know that you are appreciated while you are still able to hear it.
Diana Woodward
Wigginton, Hertfordshire
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