On January 29th, 2021 at 11:20am my family lost our mother Sheila M. Norgate, born February 6th, 1941 to a rare neurological disease - Multiple Systems Atrophy (M.S.A.).

Our mother was a strong determined woman, for whom independence was an integral part of her life. M.S.A. affects every system in the body, you loose all ability in all systems. It is a fast acting, highly aggressive disease that takes everything from the person, including their quality of life.

Our mother was determined to live life on her terms, and it was even more so for her death. She chose to be a part of the M.A.I.D. Program - (Medical Assistance In Dying) and Dying With Dignity. She knew what she wanted and ensured that she would be able to die on her terms, in exactly the way and time she chose.

Our mother was predeceased by our father, and is survived by her immediate family - son Adrian and wife Amanda, daughter Rachel and husband Maurice and her grandson Tyr Graham. Her family of brothers (both predeceased), cousins, nieces, nephews, from across the globe - England, Ireland, Maine USA, Switzerland, Quebec and Rhodesia (now known as Zimbabwe).

She touched many lives and loved many friends, from all around the world. Many met during her early days as a nurse, some even from Cambridge University Nursing programs ladies residence. She was blessed to have friends from so many walks of life - England, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and the Philippines. These individuals were so important to mom and she was blessed to have been able to see them and spend time with those able to visit. She felt truly honoured.

As I leave you to think upon the passing of Sheila Margaret Norgate (nee Cruickshank), I give you a picture or two, to bring a smile to your face, on this sad day.