When my first fostering memoir was published in 2007 it broke new ground. No one before had dared to write about the hidden, sometimes secretive world of fostering and the social services. Fifteen years and 40 books later. How time flies! I feel I have come on a long journey with my companions – all of you. Some of you were there right at the start and I feel I know you as you know me.
I have been overwhelmed by the response from readers, thousands of whom have emailed, sending their love and best wishes and saying how moved they have been by my books, and sharing their own experiences. Some of those emails are on the comments page of my website www.cathyglass.co.uk You are very loyal and sincere. It is much appreciated. Thank you.
As you have shared my life’s journey so I have shared many of your life experiences. It doesn’t matter that I have never met you, we communicate and share like old friends. I have been there during your ups and downs, laughed at some of your funny stories and revelations, and cried at your sad news or when life dealt you a cruel blow.
I have ‘seen’ young people grow up, go to university, start jobs, and have families of their own. I have been greatly saddened to hear of the abuse some of you have suffered. You are so strong. I have commiserated and given what help I can when one of your children has been taken into care. I have cried tears of happiness when that child has been returned to you. I admire your honestly in your candid account of what went wrong. We all make mistakes.
I have lost two of you that I know of. There may be more. Dear friends who loved my books but sadly died, one from cancer and the other in a car accident. One of their family was aware they loved my books emailed me let me know. I felt their loss personally as I know you felt the loss of my dear parents. Your words of comfort were much appreciated.
You often say you feel you are part of my family. I feel I am part of yours too. One big happy family that embraces many different countries, races and cultures. For us when we chat on Facebook, tweet or email we are one. Sometimes you send photographs and I am very moved, sadly I can’t reciprocate as I have to maintain my anonymity to protect the children I foster.
So fifteen years, where did the time go? One very exciting development has been the recent publication of my Lisa Stone thrillers. On this fifteen year anniversary I’d like to say a big thank you to you all. For one thing is for certain I couldn’t have come this far without you. All my love Cathy & family. Bless you. x
