CALLAGHAN, Nathan James

When you get what you want in your struggle for self

And the world makes you king for a day

Just go to the mirror and look at yourself

And see what that man has to say.

For it isn’t your father, friends or family

Whose judgment upon you must pass

The fellow whose verdict counts most in your life

Is the one staring back from the glass.

He’s the fellow to please – never mind all the rest

For he’s with you, clear to the end

And you’ve passed your most difficult, dangerous test

When the man in the mirror is your friend.

(adapted from The Man in the Glass, Dale Wimbrow, 1934)

Your forever-loving father Eric takes comfort in knowing that although your journey ended far too soon, you had forged your own path and lived life on your own terms. You found friends, family and fun times, escaping the heartache and finding laughter, joy and moments of peace that were truly your own.

Rest easy now, my man.

With sincere gratitude to Ash, Yuna and their family, and to the first responders, paramedics, and medical flight crews from Milton and Wollongong whose efforts brought you safely into expert hands.

And with my deepest appreciation to the extraordinary staff of St Vincent's Hospital Sydney ICU, who carried the greatest burden of care with unwavering compassion, dignity, skill, and kindness throughout those final days.

Eric Callaghan