Maria, a kind, gentle and giving lady, a true inspiration to all who met her. I feel honored and blessed to have known and worked with Maria.

I first met Maria when she interviewed me at the end of 1999. She had a vision for children’s community nursing and continuing care in the local community and the Bexley Paediatric Homecare Team was born. I was fortunate enough to be one of her first recruits to this service. Even at that first meeting, I could feel her enthusiasm, drive and passion to launch this service and see it grow. Maria was a wonderful mentor and role model- being new to community nursing, I needed a lot of guidance and support. Maria not only cared for the children, young people and families she served, she wholeheartedly supported and cared for her colleagues. She found time for everyone. And despite working tirelessly, Maria never lost her sense of fun. I can’t help but smile when I think of Maria.Total dedication, a shining star. Maria will be missed by so many.

Thoughts and prayers are with her family at this very sad time.