Laura has the magical ability to transform pain into a bearable place for me. Skyping her from England after my mum had a stroke, I was too distraught to speak, but just looking into her eyes soothed me. In New York, after an arduous day, I wrap myself around Laura in bed or on the couch and feel becalmed. There is an energy that shimmers between us and thrums in our hearts. It is more precious than gold to me.