As you may know, Miles has a large, tightly knit family in Malaysia. Today, the maternal side includes a grandmother, six uncles, six aunties and 15 cousins. Unfortunately, most of them were not able to join us in person, on this very day, and so on behalf of them all, I’m going to read a speech written collaboratively by all of Miles’ cousins.
Firstly, they have a short message to Miles’ London family; Ross, Uncle Law, Don, Danni and Dax:- words can not begin to express how deeply saddened we are at your loss. We want you to know that our thoughts and prayers are with you as we mourn your loss, our beloved cousin.
Miles like the partner, the daughter, the sister, the aunt, and the friend that she was, was also a cousin of exceptional qualities. Growing up, Miles has always been an example for all of us. When we were younger, we were brought up on stories about Miles’ sense of righteousness. Stories of how she decided to become a vegetarian when she saw animal cruelty and decided to be no part of it, the time when she shaved her head to raise awareness for cancer, or the numerous charities which she would assist were stories told over dinner tables as we listened in awe. Miles was always steadfast in her beliefs. She believed in the good of humanity and would never swerve for profit, but would gladly bend backwards for a righteous cause. That was the Miles we knew growing up. She was the moral compass which set our generation on the right path.
Despite growing up on different continents, Miles had a heart so loving that distance couldn’t damper its warmth. As cousins, we kept in touch regularly, and especially in times of trouble, for that is when the true loving nature of Miles would shine through. Miles was often concern about matters back at her Asian home and was ever so willing to help wherever, and however, possible. Sometimes it felt that she’d accompanied us throughout our troubled times. We will never forget her trips back to Malaysia as well, where she would always make an effort to pack her luggage full with candies, however inconvenient it may be. In a lot of ways, it is her love for her family so distant which taught us to appreciate one another.
Of all the qualities of our cousin, the one which inspired us the most was her strength. In spite of her poor health, Miles never did allow it to get the better of her. She approached every difficult moment with that positive attitude of hers. Since her passing, there has been a flow of photos in tribute to her, which we have watched with great joy as we remember Miles for who she was; a touch of silliness, the remarkable smile, and that cheerful spirit of hers.
Miles, more than anyone of us, understood what life truly meant and lived it to its fullest. And as we face this difficult moment, echoes of her voice can be heard encouraging us to do the same. For she may have left us in body, she continues to will live with us in spirit.
Miles, the moments we shared will always be cherished and you will continue to be our inspiration.
Goodbye our darling Miles.
[Read by Danni and Dax, Miles’ sister-in-law and nephew]
