Joining Gyles on this episode of Rosebud is the Leader of the Liberal Democrats, Sir Ed Davey. But this isn't a conversation about politics, it's about Ed's life, his family, his experience of profound loss, and his involvement with caring for his closest relatives - his mother, who died of cancer when he was 15, and his son, John, who was born with neurological difficulties. This is a very moving episode, with some discussion of illness, death and bereavement. Sir Ed talks to Gyles about his father and mother, both of whom died too young - his father when Ed was only 4 years old, and his mother 11 years later. He paints a vivid picture of them, and particularly of his mum - her beauty, her courage and her love. He also talks about the years after his mum's death, when he and his brother lived alone in the family bungalow and had some wild parties with their school friends. He then talks about the birth of his son John, and the amazing work done by the Peto Institute in Hungary to improve his mobility and strength, and the dedication and commitment of his wife, Emily. All of this has led Ed to write a book Why I Care, about his experience of caring and about the importance of supporting carers. This is a very moving, inspiring conversation, full of hope and of love. Ed's book is available here: https://www.waterstones.com/book/why-i-care/sir-ed-davey/9780008757915 Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction 01:23 - Family background 13:04 - Mother's cancer diagnosis 22:29 - Mother's death and immediate aftermath 26:04 - Life as a teenager after losing both parents 31:29 - Father's letter and reflections on parenting 34:43 - University years and political awakening 41:06 - Meeting wife Emily and family life 44:42 - Son John's birth and health challenges 48:34 - Daughter Ellie and family balancing 51:57 - Wife Emily's MS diagnosis and current life 53:38 - Managing career and caring responsibilities 55:37 - London Underground rescue incident 56:42 - Reflections on joy, sadness, and learning Links: Rosebud Archive - https://www.rosebudpodcast.co.uk/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/therosebudp... Rosebud Reflections - / 782397874458836 Join the Rosebud Family: https://www.patreon.com/Rosebud #sireddavey #gylesbrandreth #rosebudpodcast #rosebud #eddavey #caring #liberaldemocrats