Jo and I met many years ago, when we first worked together as midwives. I enjoyed her company immensely. She re-introduced me to drinking champagne and my children nick-named her "Champagne Jo". I went with her and some work colleagues to see "Legends of the Fall" when it first came out. I convinced her she would regret not seeing Brad Pitt, whom she had "never heard of". Her pronouncement - "he's not sexy; he's got fat lips!" She always knew what, and who, she liked. I can't think of anything worth doing that she didn't enjoy completely. I will never forget her.

I recently worked with jo at the KRC. I remember working evenings with Jo, setting up our 'bus' while on outreach in the Cross. During these times i heard some of her stories, particularly of when she worked in Africa as a midwife. She also spoke of how she enjoyed being a grandmother, and that she thought she was quite good at it too! I feel honoured to have known Jo and very saddened to hear this news.

Jo had the kind of loving and never-ending warmth and positivity that drew people to her like a magnet. Then, one always felt better after spending time with her. Style, grace and timeless classiness were attributes of Jo's too! I spoke to Jo a few days ago and was really pleased to hear her determinedly planning and organizing for what needed to happen in order for her to get what she wanted to do next - lunch with friends and family, the next treatment and more of her strong sense of hopefulness! Jo - you will always inspire me - Fran