In a heartfelt conversation with Lara and Claire, both 57, it’s clear that their friendship blossomed on a memorable evening in 2014, and since then, they have become inseparable.
Lara, a single mother and child protection lawyer from Bristol, shares insights into her busy yet fulfilling life. “I was juggling a demanding career while spending time with my kids when they were with their dad. Whenever I had the chance, I made sure to go out and enjoy life,” she explains.
That desire for enjoyment led her to the Invisible Circus one autumn night in 2014, a lively venue filled with acrobats and performers, where attendees were encouraged to dress up. “While waiting in line for the restroom, I started chatting with Claire, who was also a single mom. She looked stunning in a fabulous 70s kaftan and a homemade turban,” Lara reminisces. “We might have been talking about nothing in particular, but I left thinking I really liked her.”
Claire, who runs a nearby occupational therapy business, felt that instant connection. “Lara was so easy to talk to, and our laughter was contagious,” she recalls. The very next day, Claire found Lara among her Facebook friend suggestions, and they quickly connected online. “We began liking each other’s photos and chatting now and then,” Claire adds.
Their friendship took a deeper turn in the spring of 2015 when they bumped into each other at their local doctor’s office. “I was off work due to stress, and seeing Claire in the waiting room was so comforting,” Lara says. “I was feeling emotional, and her kindness meant the world to me.”
They decided to meet for coffee a few days later, and Claire felt a meaningful reconnection during that meeting. “It was different this time. I felt free to be my true self around her, with no fear of judgment. We even discovered that our families both have a background in pub ownership, which really brought us closer.”
Lara describes Claire as an incredible friend who understands the challenges of single motherhood. “Our kids get along so well too,” she notes, adding that while she’s in a long-term relationship, Claire often joins her as a plus-one to various events.
Four years ago, when Claire received an ADHD diagnosis, she turned to Lara for support. “She patiently listened as I talked about my diagnosis,” Claire laughs. “Her support was invaluable. I also have Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, which affects my joints, and Lara is always considerate of what I’m going through.”
Lara reflects that their support for each other runs deep. “I’ve faced recurring depression, and Claire is incredibly compassionate. She knows when I need some space and when to encourage me to embrace life.”
Tragically, last year, Lara was diagnosed with advanced bowel cancer. “Claire was with me when I got the news,” she recalls. “My kids and I were in shock, and she stepped in to ask all the right questions.”
For Claire, that experience was particularly difficult. “I felt honored that Lara wanted me there, but hearing such devastating news was heartbreaking,” she admits. Initially, they were informed that the cancer was inoperable, but thanks to palliative chemotherapy, Lara was able to have surgery to remove 75% of her liver, though the cancer remains. “I decided to stop palliative chemotherapy earlier this year because I want to live my best life, rather than suffer through my final months,” Lara explains.
Despite the challenging circumstances, Lara remains active, cherishing her time with loved ones. “Cancer has truly shown me how loved I am,” she reflects. Both women focus on creating joyful moments together, with Claire adding, “We just want to make as many happy memories as possible. We recently attended a festival and have more trips in the works.”
Amid these trials, Claire admires Lara’s resilience. “Even on the hard days, she manages to stay positive and offers me invaluable advice, which I really appreciate.”
Lara, in turn, values Claire’s adventurous spirit and unwavering loyalty. “She has extensive medical knowledge and has been a constant source of support for me and my children. I cherish her passion for life and her steadfast presence in my life. That kind of friendship is truly priceless.”
