My friend's father has been diagnosed with leukaemia.

Just a couple of weeks ago, her cousin - only 30, and with four kids - was diagnosed as being in the advanced stages of terminal stomach cancer.

I have to confess to not being a very good Catholic here. I don't believe in miracles. Nor do I trust in guardian angels.

But God, if there's one thing I'm asking you for, it's that you give my friend and her family the strength to get through this.