i first met Kathryn over 20 years ago when I was out in town with her now husband Mark and she was out with my now wife Helen (long story). I was extremely fortunate and truly blessed that over that time we became the very best of friends. 

She was the most wonderful person that I have ever had the privilege of knowing. Anyone who met her, either socially or professionally immediately loved her. She had an incredible knack of making anyone she met feel special and valued. 

She was so incredibly passionate about her work with young people with complex disabilities and worked tirelessly throughout her career to get them a better and fairer deal. Her enthusiasm was truly infectious and I had the pleasure of spending many hours with her and the students at National Star College when she was Principal. Her OBE as a result of that work was richly deserved and something we were all immensely proud of. 

Somehow, even though she had a very busy, high pressure job and a busy social life she always found time to make those around her feel loved. She found time for everyone. There is now a huge hole in all of our lives that I know will never be filled. I will miss her enormously each and every day. We promise to continue to support and raise funds for the Kathryn Rudd Opportunity Fund. We all know how important this is and what it meant to Kathryn.  

Anyway, thanks so much for everything, see you on the other side. You’ll definitely be allowed in but not so sure about me so if you could put a word in with the big man that would be great. Love you sis xxx