For Mel - By Margaret Andrews
On March 31 this year, Mick Meredith, well-known Sydney comedian, donated the takings from his Comedy Festival Show at the Laugh Garage at Parramatta, to CF NSW in honour of Melanie Andrews – my Mel.
Mick tells the story well of how, while walking through the Dining Room at a local bowling club he heard a small voice say “that’s Mick Meredith”. Mick wasn’t a complete stranger to our family as he had been a good friend with my sister in their teenage years. I called him over to ask if he remembered us and lo and behold, he even remembered me (some 25 years on). He had a quick chat and headed off.
Shortly after that meeting, we asked Mick to visit St Vincent’s Hospital to perform for the Transplant Support Group, something he was happy to do for us. Mel couldn’t even attend the group that day because she was sick with RSV, a virus that has a high risk of infection among transplant recipients. So, instead of Mel missing out completely, Mick asked Mel to be his guest of honour at his show on March 31. We booked that into the diary and Mel was really looking forward to the night out. He had left his CD with her at the hospital and she took great pleasure in playing her favourite parts to many of the nursing staff. It kept us laughing a lot during those really hard days and nights.
When Mel had to leave this earth in February, I asked Mick to speak during a presentation at Camden High School, after her Mass at St Francis of Assisi. Once again Mick had no hesitation and while speaking about his number one fan, he mentioned that proceeds from the night would be donated to CF. I have been continually overwhelmed by the kindness of many people and this was another to add to a long list.
The night was fantastic and the house was full. Mick had made a short movie to introduce his show and that was followed with the photo above. The applause was unexpected and heart-warming. I drank too much wine but laughed all night – I know Mel would have been happy that I had enjoyed myself. Mick’s kindness spread to Darren Saunders, the owner of “The Laugh Garage” and he too gave generously.
It was a great night for all but most of all it was a great night for Mel. In all that time, Mel never actually got to see Mick perform live. I know she has now and I know she was with me on March 31st, sitting beside in the seat everyone else thought was empty.
Thanks to the kindness of Mick and Darren, as well as everyone who attended, more people know about CF and the suffering of beautiful people, just like my Mel.
If you ever feel like a break from the often-depressing life dealing with CF, there are two people you can go to see for some humour therapy – Darren at the Laugh Garage, Parramatta or Mick Meredith‘s show. Both have websites with all of their details and shows. We were lucky to have two great people like these who have promoted awareness of CF for us. It has meant the world to me and a very special angel called Mel.
-By Margaret Andrews
