I won't pretend it doesn't hurt, but Gav, I only want you to be okay. I wouldn't want you to try and force yourself to do something you aren't ready for or aren't comfortable with, especially if it would be detrimental to your well-being.
It's because I really like you that I understand why you need to do this. I would still want to be friends, because I still want to make sure that you're doing alright. And if we got another chance then that would be great.