I am whooshed by an unstoppable wave of despair every time I realise that I can no longer send my brilliant sister an everyday bimbling sort of message (which she answers in kind); share a silly photo with her (which she laughs at too); show off about something I'm wildly proud of (to find she is just as impressed); moan about something that's outrageous (which she finds equally horrifying); invite her for supper and be invited back to join in her generous hospitality; giggle over shared memories together or ask directly for advice on something I'm troubled by (to which she always gives careful considered responses). She has always been there as a wise, thoughtful, empathic, grounded, reliable, conscientious, intelligent, talented, creative, funny, caring, essential part of my life... someone I look up to who holds to values of integrity, high standards, strength of resolve and the importance of family love. After each wave of despair has whooshed over me, I realise that those qualities and ways in which Ailsa is with us in our lives continues - I can still consult and share things with her - just not on WhatsApp! I know by heart how she will react, what she'll find ridiculous or adorable and what counsel she will give me. My family and I will always be enriched, enabled, empowered and nourished by her influence and our ongoing and ever-present relationship with her. A tribute from a deeply grateful little sister.