My darling, dearest Nina, my wonderful friend and the sister I never had.
I feel honoured and privileged that Nina was such a huge and important part of my life for 29 years. What a joy it was to share an office at the University with Nina for the last 16 years. Nina had so many fine qualities – kindness, compassion, loyalty and humour. On top of that, she was insightful, intelligent, witty, creative, a fantastic dancer, a talented artist and expert jewellery maker. A unique, vibrant, magnificent woman.
We did so many things together –outings, events, musical parties, family gatherings, frequent visits to her Groucho Club. We would have our annual Christmas lunch there. Our Groucho Christmas lunch in December 2019 is very memorable. Nina, Chris Shepherd and I laughed so much together, due to clever use of double entendre, that people sitting at the nearby tables were curiously looking over at us. Nina was my best surprise present at Paladar (Latin-American restaurant opposite the University), in December, when my son, Michael, arranged for her to be part of my birthday celebrations there.
We always found something that we needed to celebrate together, no matter how small. We shared so much together and there was always laughter. We always said we could face whatever came our way because we would laugh. Nina was my ‘turn to’ friend, in all situations.
Nina’s death has left me heartbroken and devastated that I could not be by her side, either when she was ill at home, or at the hospital. A big hole has been left in our lives.
My amazing Nina, rest in peace, I will never forget you.
