Smile Train is an international children’s charity with a sustainable approach to a single, solvable... moreSmile Train is an international children’s charity with a sustainable approach to a single, solvable problem: cleft lip and palate.
Millions of children in developing countries with unrepaired clefts live in shame, but more importantly, have difficulty eating, breathing and speaking. Cleft repair surgery is simple, and the transformation is immediate. Our sustainable model provides training and funding to empower local doctors in 85+ developing countries to provide 100%-free cleft repair surgery in their communities.
We use the “teach a man to fish” model focusing on training local doctors to perform cleft repairs in their communities. Those doctors then go on to train other doctors creating a long-term, sustainable system.
Patients see their smile for the first time, parents cry tears of joy, lives and communities are changed forever.
As a result of our efficiency and with the support of our donors and partners around the world, Smile Train has transformed the lives of more than one million children by giving them the power of a smile -- that's roughly 350 surgeries a day and 128,000+ every year.
We created a GatheringUs memorial to celebrate the life of Paul Robert Dow. Collecting your stories and memories here will offer us great comfort and a good giggle! Click on the heart to let us know you were here and to receive email updates. Thank you for contributing to this lasting memorial.
OBITUARY
Paul Dow - once met never forgotten! Paul loved life, he woke up everyday with a huge smile on his face no matter the circumstances. He lived to make a difference whether through sharing his passion for making music or through his vocation as a scientist, his charitable donations, or his wicked sense of humour or just a smile and a joke for a stranger. There is no doubt that he made the world around him a brighter, better place. He... see more Paul Dow - once met never forgotten! Paul loved life, he woke up everyday with a huge smile on his face no matter the circumstances. He lived to make a difference whether through sharing his passion for making music or through his vocation as a scientist, his charitable donations, or his wicked sense of humour or just a smile and a joke for a stranger. There is no doubt that he made the world around him a brighter, better place. He didn't believe in an after life but his philosophy was that by living everyday for others he would live on in the joy of their improved lives. I am the luckiest woman alive to have spent 28 years adoring Paul and being adored by him. We cuddled and laughed every single day. We worked together, played music together, played games together, celebrated the boys together and we never once got bored in each others company. I like to think that we amplified each others good qualities and smoothed over the poorer qualities. Paul gave me all the love and encouragement that I needed to become who I am, that gift is for the rest of my life. In short, thank you Paul for the love, the music, the boys, the laughter, the cooking and the ability to find joy in the darkest of times.
Today Paul would have turned 64, you all know the song that he would have been singing all day!
His spirit is still strong, funny, supportive and ever present.
If you happen to be in the Northampton area on 27th August join us for an 'All for Paul'... moreToday Paul would have turned 64, you all know the song that he would have been singing all day!
His spirit is still strong, funny, supportive and ever present.
If you happen to be in the Northampton area on 27th August join us for an 'All for Paul' musical experience, 4 bands that literally only exist because of Paul. less
Hello, my name is Paul Hedges and I lived next door to Paul from 67 until about 77 when we both moved away. I was really devastated to learn of his passing and my heart goes out to you all. .My first memory of him was when he was wearing a home made... moreHello, my name is Paul Hedges and I lived next door to Paul from 67 until about 77 when we both moved away. I was really devastated to learn of his passing and my heart goes out to you all. .My first memory of him was when he was wearing a home made Robin Hood outfit when he was 8. We went through the Action man/Airfix phases and I can remember after seeing where Eagles dare, he built a cablecar for the Action men from his balcony. After getting into The Beatles, we both learned the guitar, and Paul ran away with it. Our first band ‘The Rabbits’, evolved into Annonymous and Paul was way ahead of us all. One day he called around with a tape measure and a book, took measurements of my Rickenbacker 4001 and promptly built one! My abiding memory of Paul is of him wearing his Liverpool kit, playing football on the local field covered in mud, with no one really able to get past him. He was a wonderful, generous and hilarious friend and the world is a lesser place without him. less
Natasha DowHello Paul. I just saw your post on Paul's birthday. How wonderful to hear your memories. Paul talked about you so often and dreamed of making contact with you. He spoke so fondly of your friendship in those magical formative years. I don't know how... moreHello Paul. I just saw your post on Paul's birthday. How wonderful to hear your memories. Paul talked about you so often and dreamed of making contact with you. He spoke so fondly of your friendship in those magical formative years. I don't know how to private message you, please drop me an email at Dow.natasha@gmail.com and we can chat more.
Thank you so much for your messages of support, your donations, your attendance at the tribute in person and in spirit, and your musical joy. The tribute concert was indeed a tribute to a much loved, unique musical genius. He was rockin' in the heavens... moreThank you so much for your messages of support, your donations, your attendance at the tribute in person and in spirit, and your musical joy. The tribute concert was indeed a tribute to a much loved, unique musical genius. He was rockin' in the heavens for sure.
As I tried to say on the day, Paul made a choice everyday NOT to share his pain and suffering with others but instead to uplift them by sharing his talents and love. Everytime that you are faced with a similar dilemma and follow Paul's example you are keeping Paul's memory alive.....and everytime that you rock out or lick your plate!
We hope to make this an annual event....Paul's Tiggytar Fest will be making a repeat appearance next year on or around his birthday 18th June 2023. less
Just to confirm that the 1st Paul's Pascoa Music Festival will take place on Easter Sunday 17th April at the Associacao in Sobral da Lagoa from 3pm. Lots of varied live music promised and plenty of BBQed chicken and beer. Paul would definitely... moreJust to confirm that the 1st Paul's Pascoa Music Festival will take place on Easter Sunday 17th April at the Associacao in Sobral da Lagoa from 3pm. Lots of varied live music promised and plenty of BBQed chicken and beer. Paul would definitely approve!! It would help if you could let me know if you are attending so that we have enough chicken and beer! less
We were so sad when we heard we had lost Paul. He fed our love of music so perfectly, and we will miss his infectious smile and lovely cheerful personality. Unfortunately we cannot join you for the Tribute Concert as our youngest son is getting married... moreWe were so sad when we heard we had lost Paul. He fed our love of music so perfectly, and we will miss his infectious smile and lovely cheerful personality. Unfortunately we cannot join you for the Tribute Concert as our youngest son is getting married on Easter Saturday in the UK, but our thoughts will be with you all. Thank you for the music Paul less
I am very sorry to learn about Paul I first met him many years ago when he came for a job at ICI. Unfortunately for us he accepted an offer from another company but I always remembered how disappointed we were that he didn't join us. As a result I was... moreI am very sorry to learn about Paul I first met him many years ago when he came for a job at ICI. Unfortunately for us he accepted an offer from another company but I always remembered how disappointed we were that he didn't join us. As a result I was particularly pleased when he came to work at Harrogate. Paul was an excellent scientist, respected by all who worked with him. Natasha and family you have my deepest sympathy, I hope you find comfort from the many kind words left by friends on this website. less
Rest in peace Paul, enjoyed our brief time together in Harrogate, fine beer, classic cars, live music, many fond memories to cherish. Hope you find Eddie VH up there and get to rock forever.
He was always full of beans. Could liven up a room. The office was always a place of laughter. He loved the rajput and his curry nights out. Natasha was his soulmate. RIP Paul.
What to say about my lovely, older brother that hasn't been said here so many times already? He was a kind & loving husband, father, son, brother (-in-law) & uncle. Chris, Eddie & I have nothing but happy memories of whenever we got to see... moreWhat to say about my lovely, older brother that hasn't been said here so many times already? He was a kind & loving husband, father, son, brother (-in-law) & uncle. Chris, Eddie & I have nothing but happy memories of whenever we got to see him & Natasha in their various homes around the world. We'll all miss his cheeky humour, but can always conjure his look of delight when he'd said, or done, something a bit outrageous, to cheer our memory of him! Although I am crying as I write this, I'm happy in the knowledge that Paul knew how much we all loved him & that, despite never complaining about things, his pain is over. less
Tribute Concert on Easter Sunday in Portugal!
Everybody is welcome to join us in a celebration of Paul's life. Save the date, book your flights and musicians think of songs to play in honour of the great man. Details to follow.....
Paul was a fantastic role model when I first started work back in 2000. He was then, about the age I am now. In my first few days of work he and Natasha were always there to invite me to coffee and let me see that working wasn't the rigid, formal way it... morePaul was a fantastic role model when I first started work back in 2000. He was then, about the age I am now. In my first few days of work he and Natasha were always there to invite me to coffee and let me see that working wasn't the rigid, formal way it could be, but collaborative and fun. Many happy evenings were spent - Thursday night pub quizzes in Markington or curries in the Raj Put in Harrogate. I managed to find a few pictures of Paul and Natasha's leaving party when they moved to the US. Sadly missed. less
Sending all my love, I’m so sorry for your loss. Paul was a great man , that brought so much laughter to the world.
It’s been far too long, but will never forget the fun, the quizzes, the music and midnight curries at the Rajput . I am grateful for... moreSending all my love, I’m so sorry for your loss. Paul was a great man , that brought so much laughter to the world.
It’s been far too long, but will never forget the fun, the quizzes, the music and midnight curries at the Rajput . I am grateful for being able to know such an amazing man. Love you lots- Lou xxx less
I’d not seen Paul for over 20-years but he’s one of those people you’ll never forget. He was a innovative scientist, and if I say he was a bit of a maverick, I’m sure he’d take that as the compliment it’s meant to be. I was his boss for a... moreI’d not seen Paul for over 20-years but he’s one of those people you’ll never forget. He was a innovative scientist, and if I say he was a bit of a maverick, I’m sure he’d take that as the compliment it’s meant to be. I was his boss for a while, but he was also a great friend and the news that he’s gone is so tragic. This photograph was taken in 2000, and I think it captures that moment before his wicked sense of humour comes to the surface. less
Great memories of Paul back in the later 80’s when I worked with him. He always went off to the bakers on a Friday morning to get cakes for everyone. We shared a love for rock music and Curries so socialised out of work. Saw him play in Zero Option... moreGreat memories of Paul back in the later 80’s when I worked with him. He always went off to the bakers on a Friday morning to get cakes for everyone. We shared a love for rock music and Curries so socialised out of work. Saw him play in Zero Option & Fatlip. Plenty of great memories! RIP less
Ian and I were lucky to have Solid Gold playing at several of our pre-Covid parties on sunny summer afternoons. However, we particularly remember them playing in Obidos in the courtyard of the little restaurant run a few years ago by JamonJamon before... moreIan and I were lucky to have Solid Gold playing at several of our pre-Covid parties on sunny summer afternoons. However, we particularly remember them playing in Obidos in the courtyard of the little restaurant run a few years ago by JamonJamon before they moved to their new premises. We love the new place too, but the musical evenings with Paul and Natasha under the trees in the old walled courtyard were quite magical. Many of our visiting family and friends loved it there too.
We shall miss Paul as a friend and musician. He was a special person. And though this is a memorial to Paul, may we also be allowed to pay tribute to the beautiful Natasha who loved him, cared for him and supported him in every aspect of his life. If Paul could read all these tributes, he would probably wrinkle him brow and say: “Well I would have been nowhere at all without my beloved Natasha” less
Another great night was Paul's 50th. The kids were very excited and sat front row for the band - they were huge fans and jumped about to the music till they were ready to drop. Tired at last Eve & Ashleigh somehow fell asleep on a chair while the... moreAnother great night was Paul's 50th. The kids were very excited and sat front row for the band - they were huge fans and jumped about to the music till they were ready to drop. Tired at last Eve & Ashleigh somehow fell asleep on a chair while the band played on. Great night less
I love this pic of Paul. It was the night he was doing a BBQ on the patio, drinking beer and playing games. We decided we would do charades of dances and it was just the funniest thing. I think Paul did the monster mash. I laughed so hard until no noise... moreI love this pic of Paul. It was the night he was doing a BBQ on the patio, drinking beer and playing games. We decided we would do charades of dances and it was just the funniest thing. I think Paul did the monster mash. I laughed so hard until no noise came out. I think someone did the hucklebuck. Great night, great memories xx. less
I'll always remember the first time Natasha brought Paul round to ours. We had a chocolate fondue which Paul couldn't believe wasn't a poo fondue. I knew then he was perfect for Natasha! its just so hard to believe this wonderful warm funny Paul is no... moreI'll always remember the first time Natasha brought Paul round to ours. We had a chocolate fondue which Paul couldn't believe wasn't a poo fondue. I knew then he was perfect for Natasha! its just so hard to believe this wonderful warm funny Paul is no longer walking this earth. We shall all miss you tons. Rest in Peace with love from Sean, Nicole, Trinity & Ashleigh xxxx less
One sunny afternoon back in 2013 or maybe it was 2014 I was walking home along the bay in Sao Martinho when I heard a rock band playing. The music was from in front of what was then Martinho's, I went over and saw this middle-aged man playing amazing... moreOne sunny afternoon back in 2013 or maybe it was 2014 I was walking home along the bay in Sao Martinho when I heard a rock band playing. The music was from in front of what was then Martinho's, I went over and saw this middle-aged man playing amazing guitar and accompanied by a beautiful woman on base, I can't remember who was playing the drums, I stood and listened for some time before continuing home and telling Constance about this amazing guitarist saying she must come next time. I didn't know then that we were to become great friends sharing many good times like the month together in Goa. Also, there were some bad times, like when Paul was in the hospital, after their India trip. Paul never remembered my visits whilst he was ill in bed. When Paul gave you a 'man hug' you really knew he cared. What a great man, his friendship will live on with me forever. less
I loved Paul, admired the man very much. His humor really was irresistible, a straight shooter over what he was thinking. You always knew where you stood with Paul.
I still see Paul in the kitchen, making marmite pinwheels and licking the knife off... moreI loved Paul, admired the man very much. His humor really was irresistible, a straight shooter over what he was thinking. You always knew where you stood with Paul.
I still see Paul in the kitchen, making marmite pinwheels and licking the knife off with each spread of the black paste. He could surely cook. Nothing he liked better than to cook for friends alongside his best friend, his beloved Natasha.
I miss his hugs and squeezes. Pauls smiles. When you were with him you felt special. I imagine him playing his guitar in heaven, beer in hand, with a curry simmering on the burner.
RIP Paul
With Love from a friend and a big fan. Constance Castle less
Natasha Dow
It might comfort you to know that several times recently Paul said "I don't want to die but I'm ready to die, I have nothing left to resolve". He was an example of contentment.
Mensagem para Paul de Inácio
" Já não está mais entre nós, sua luz se apagou para sempre, mas a sua marca vai se manter neste mundo para sempre. Pois pessoas especiais como o Paul nunca desaparecem, apenas seguem caminhos diferentes mas permanecem... moreMensagem para Paul de Inácio
" Já não está mais entre nós, sua luz se apagou para sempre, mas a sua marca vai se manter neste mundo para sempre. Pois pessoas especiais como o Paul nunca desaparecem, apenas seguem caminhos diferentes mas permanecem onde realmente importa , no coração de todos. Até sempre, descansa em paz Paul. " less
What great memories we all have of our time with Paul... From the first time I met Paul & Tarty in the Glaxo social club in Greenford many moons ago. To my first time drinking Red Wine with Paul ( many Btls..) in the Wembley Flat, to the wedding in... moreWhat great memories we all have of our time with Paul... From the first time I met Paul & Tarty in the Glaxo social club in Greenford many moons ago. To my first time drinking Red Wine with Paul ( many Btls..) in the Wembley Flat, to the wedding in Sudbury town, to the many trips to Yorkshire for lots of Party nights & walks & Pints. To our Family holidays nearly every year with you in Portugal, So many wonderful memories... My Boys just loved Paul's humour as they grew up.. he made them Laugh..! Probably the most honest Man I knew, he didn't mince his word & spoke his mind but always so truthful.. A True friend and he will be sadly missed , Robbie Mary Niall & Sean xx less