Carpe Diem! As a lawyer, Donna would have appreciated the Latin. But reflecting on the tragic death of Donna, it also sums up how she lived her life.
In whatever she was doing: rowing, teaching, being a mother and a friend, Donna had a determination to enjoy the day and live it to the full. And she wanted to help those around her do the same. She valued her many long-term friends but always made new people welcome and part of the fun. Her sense of optimism, that anything was possible, even when three bumps down, was infectious. Her determination to try harder, to push for more when three bumps up was inspiring. Donna made sure though that after the hard work and the challenges, that there was the party, the dancing, the lengthy crew ‘planning’ discussions in her kitchen with her children, Kate and George, adding to the warmth and laughter. Donna had incredible generosity – sharing the things that she and her family enjoyed with genuine enthusiasm.
All at Champs will have their own personal memories of Donna and many will have known her in her ‘other’ lives. As a true and faithful friend, an excellent source of common sense and insightful advice, a Southwold camping veteran and champion crabber, a restorer of houseboats, a true professional, a wise teacher and a good neighbour and as a loving, proud, passionate mother.
Our hearts go out to Kate and George and Donna’s family and close friends. Theirs is a terrible, tragic, bewildering and shocking loss. Donna’s zest for life, her determination to make the most of every day and her joyful laughter will be missed by all of us.
Jules, Ysanne, Rosie, Stella and Kathy