I first met Nancy in 1996 when our sons, then 3 years old, were in the same preschool class. I was immediately drawn to her sincere warmth, honesty and integrity. Could not imagine a lie emanating from her lips. I was brought to tears of laughter by her incredible sense of humor. I knew that if I was going to have a conversation with Nancy, I was going to be laughing. A lot. She had a way of capturing the essence of a circumstance or of others with her rapier wit - a term she often used as a compliment for others. Yes, Nancy was very humble. Often she could not understand why I loved her so. Could not see how much I valued her wisdom and the fact that I knew I could trust all that she said. She would never be guided by ill will. The most treasured quality a friend could have. Yet, Nancy was not guileless or naive. She had seen a thing or two in life and in the Emergency Room at St. Vincents Hospital where she worked for many years. I can think of no other nurse I might want caring for me: smart, capable, kindhearted, clear headed. When I was in pain and in trouble over the years, I knew I could - and I did - call Nancy. I was freaked out about this or that and after our conversation, I knew what to do, where my thinking had gone awry and that somehow I would be ok. I felt good after talking to Nancy. I felt loved and lovable. Nancy is an irreplaceable loss for me. I am lucky to have had her for so many years in my life but I will mourn her loss forever.

I send my deepest sympathy to Nancy’s family and friends on her passing. I feel fortunate to have met Nancy if only virtually. She was my rock through a very difficult time. Her courage, warmth, generosity and humor helped so many of us. Nancy will be missed.

Maura

I will miss Nancy and her kindness and support towards me and the many other women she replied to and was so kind to on the MBC site I belong to. She always replied to my queries or need for support. She was one of the ones I looked for to see her reply. I also loved knowing what she was up to and how she was travelling.

I was so sorry to hear of her death.

I want you, her family and friends, to know how much she meant to so many of us, on our support site.

Nancy, you will be greatly missed.

Dear Randy and Louis

We know words can’t take away the hurt you’re feeling, but We want you to know how much We care. Sending you love and strength in this time of loss. May Nancy’s Memory Be A Blessing To All

Love always

Neal and Lisa Boshnack

Sincere condolences to Nancy's family.

I too met Nancy online as a member of the Health Unlocked site for women. She touched many of us with her sensibilities, humor and her kick-ass attitude, she will be dearly missed :(

Susie, a fellow member (Mississauga, Ontario, Canada)

My deep condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones of Nancy.

I met Nancy online through the Health Unlocked community of women diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer. She was always such a breath of fresh air with her witticisms and loving nature. Some of her posts made me laugh out loud. When she stopped posting about a year ago, I missed her online voice so much but realized that her fight must have become more difficult.

May she now rest in God's arms and may her beauty and light continue to brighten this world and beyond.

With much love and sympathy,

Linda, a Seattle mom and fellow fighter

My sincere condolences to Nancy's family and friends! I'm not a gifted writer but read Lynn Mckennas post and it truly said it all. Nancy was one of the first people I connected with here on our forum . She was such an inspiration and had a way of making you laugh at what was troubling you. I have missed her these past few months and now know why. Please know how wonderful Nancy was to all of us suffering from this chronic disease!! I am saying a prayer for her God Bless you all!!! Debbie

To have known Nancy you would understand how Randy, Louis, Clare, Collette, Denise and Ellen lovingly and devotedly attended to her care. Her courage was an inspiration to us all. I will cherish the years filled with heartfelt memories!

I love you Nancy, Ellen Cassorla

Nancy gave me hope and courage after my diagnosis. Her wisdom, sense of humor, and strength made it possible for me to get past the horrible early days. Though we never met, she shared her experiences through a forum that helped many. Her heart will carry on in those she helped.

Nancy Shafter

Heaven has a new angel that I may not be able to see with my eyes, touch with my hands, but will always feel in my heart. Until we meet again my friend

My most sincere and heartfelt condolences to Nancy's family and loved ones...What heartbreaking news!

I knew Nancy through an online board related to a disease we unfortunately had in common. While this may sound like a loose connection, Nancy was such an incredibly valuable member of this community that I, among many members I'm sure, counted her as a good friend.

She so generously shared her wisdom, experience, and wit with all of us in the group.

She was a beautiful soul and an astonishingly good writer.

We corresponded about travel, life, sickness, etc., but also about her love for her family, especially her son, Louis.

I'll keep Nancy in my thoughts and heart. My very best wishes to Nancy's family and friends during this very sad time.

Lynn McKenna

Godspeed my Friend... You are now in a better place and can fly as free and high as you always dreamed!

...and as I promised I would, here is the poem you asked me to share:

Don't bring me flowers when I am dead,

Come see me today, while I'm sick in bed.

Don't cry for me, when I'm no longer here,

Come smile with me, no need for tears.

Don't try to remember how I used to be,

Come by today and you can see.

Make good use of time, while I'm still around,

Don't wait for tomorrow, when I'm in the ground.

And don't give me a funeral fit for a king,

The day I die everyone should sing.

Because you saw me through sorrow and strife,

And yes my friends, all through my life.

Nancy, you will always be here with us... Love you!

We are so sorry to hear of Nancy's passing. Our most heartfelt sympathies.

Love,

Gary, Donna & Elena