R2OK!

ColinB · Guest

I was asked by a friend-of-a-friend to make a DVD copy of a rather ropey VHS-C home video, which I did yesterday. It was hard work because the tape was a bit unstable due to a persistent edge-crease but I've got the professional gear to do this kind of transfer properly (some of it ex-BBC) and the resulting DVD turned out to be quite good.

I took it round to the lady this morning and she when I handed it to her she burst out into tears. Did I have bad breath? Was it something I said?

It turns out that the video featured her mother who, two hours after the video was recorded, died of cancer in our local hospice two years ago today. She had recored many hours of video with her very sick mum, with the last scene being recorded within minutes of passing away. It was probably the most moving piece of video or film I've ever seen (I've worked with video professionally for 35 years) - and it was shot by a complete "amateur".

Even though I have a rather thick exterior (my wife reckons an X-ray on me would reveal absolutely no heart!!) I have to admit I was a bit choked in the car on the way back.

It sort of puts things into perspective really. You just never know what's around the corner and you really do have to make the most of what you have when you have it.

Her mum would have been only 54 now.

Season's Greetings to one and all.

Sadie Su · Joined: 14 Sep 2010 Posts: 146

How lovely for you to make this Christmas so special for her.