Roger’s Story

Site created on September 16, 2020

To all who care about Roger and Lizzie,


At this time, we want to let you know about Roger's current health situation and prognosis.  As you know, six years ago he was diagnosed with glioblastoma, a malignant brain tumor.  He had surgery and chemotherapy and, for these many years since, he has had a good life, enjoying his life in York, his time with Lizzie, and the opportunity to work with esteemed colleagues on the Hokusai show at the British Museum.  He has outlived the doctors' initial prognosis many times over.


Recently, however, Roger, Lizzie, his medical specialists and care team have agreed to discontinue treatment, and to let his life come naturally to its end. His oncologist estimates that he may have three months of life remaining.


Roger wants to reassure everyone that he is receiving tremendous care and support from the many people and services of the National Health Service.  He and Lizzie feel he couldn't be getting better care anywhere.  They have developed close ties with all his caregivers and feel they will be well supported however Roger's dying process unfolds.  The excellent support from caregivers and the NHS is especially important during these difficult COVID times when family cannot be with them.


While it will not be possible to be in touch with you individually, we will keep this site updated when there is news to share, in the hope that you will feel included in this process.


Time and energy are in shorter supply for Roger and Lizzie now.  If you would like to be in touch, please send cards or short letters, rather than emails, to 36 High Petergate, York, YO1 7EH, United Kingdom.  Even though they may not be able to respond, your well wishes, caring and love are most welcome to them now and going forward.

Newest Update

November 22, 2020

Journal entry by Janet Keyes —

Before dawn on Sunday, at home in York, Roger died. Lizzie found him, his face peaceful and calm.  She had been sitting with him throughout the day before, holding his hand and listening to his breath, which was growing shallower. He was peaceful and calm when she checked on him in the early hours of the morning.  When she found him three hours later, his body was still warm. His death was confirmed by 2 district nurses and his long-term carer, Charlene. Lizzie and Charlene then washed his body and prepared it for the undertakers.

He will be cremated as he wished.  The family will be discussing and making arrangements for some memorial ceremony, the extent of which, in this time of COVID, is uncertain.

The family thanks you for all your messages of love and support.  Roger was a most special person to all of us, and we will deeply miss him.

Read More of the journal titled "November 22, 2020"
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