Earlier this month, I wrote about my time in Canada, the beautiful people I met and the wonderful farm where my son is now living and working. There was, however, a part of that story I didn't tell. Not because it wasn't important, but because it wasn't my story to tell. My son CJ’s best friend, Ash, is the reason he ended up in Canada in the first place, and why he is now on that farm. Their friendship has brought our families together, and I have come to care deeply about the people who have welcomed my boy into their lives. Ash is just 21 years old. Until a few months ago, he was fit, healthy, working hard, in love with his beautiful partner Sara, and looking forward to all the things young people should be looking forward to. Then, in July, he was diagnosed with Stage IV alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma, an exceptionally rare and aggressive cancer that had already spread. I cannot begin to imagine what it must be like to receive that news so young. Or what it must be like for his parents, his family and Sara, who is now expecting their baby. There is something particularly cruel about watching a young couple, just beginning to build their life together, having to face something so frightening. But there is also something extraordinary about the love surrounding them, and the determination with which Ash is facing his treatment. I've spent much of my life believing in the power of community, in people showing up for one another when life gets difficult. Sometimes that means offering a hand, sometimes a prayer, and sometimes, if we're fortunate enough to be able to, a little financial help. Ash's aunt Jody has now shared his story publicly and set up a fundraiser to help with the enormous costs of treatment, travel, specialist consultations and the everyday financial pressures facing this young family. I'm sharing it because Ash isn't just a name on a fundraising page. He's my son's best friend. He's part of the reason my boy has found a home and a life in Canada, thousands of miles from me. And for that alone, he and his family will always have a special place in my heart. If you can spare something, however small, I would be enormously grateful. If you can't, perhaps you could share his story. And if you're someone who prays, please keep Ash, Sara, their baby and the whole family in your prayers. Twenty is an age for making plans, falling in love and believing the whole world is ahead of you. I want Ash and Sara to have every possible chance to live those dreams. With love and gratitude. ❤️ Please donate here if you can gofundme.com/f/help-ash-figh…