Life can be so cruel.

Pancreatic cancer is insidious, aggressive and indiscriminate. If Life was just, the most beautiful amongst us would be spared. Instead, our much beloved friend, colleague and family member, Ann Kelly, has been challenged by impossible odds in the fight of her life.

Two weeks ago, while at work, she noticed symptoms. Just days after that she was dealt a devastating diagnosis, and there were no options to consider. Nothing can be done to prevent this disease from ravaging Ann’s beautiful body, weakening her by the day.

She no longer plans a fanciful family Christmas and has put aside the excitement of planning her eldest daughter’s forthcoming wedding. Her days are now managed instead by palliative services and the devoted care from her daughters.

Having devoted her life to working with special needs’ children and their families, Ann leaves a lasting legacy. She stood beside the students that many found challenging, yet she remained their steadfast advocate. She taught those around her that a positive mindset is an invaluable asset. Her compassion and generosity is unmatched and her positivity and resilience is widely admired by those who have worked with her over the years.

We now need to advocate for her. Please help in any way you can to ensure that Ann’s most immediate financial pressures can be managed, allowing Ann and her cherished daughters, Freya and Mia, to focus on making these days as memorable and comfortable as possible.