I have thought a lot about what to write over the last few weeks, and nothing I have come up with seems enough.

Helen was a force.

Incredibly intelligent, with a very quick wit and no tolerance for foolishness; in fact coining my favourite ever comeback to a particularly obtuse peer who was “failing to understand” some reasoning with “I fail to understand how you are failing to understand”.

She was also incredibly generous with her time, not just with her scientific skills and knowledge, but also on a personal level as we navigated difficult times. She always had a kind word for those that needed it.

I worked very closely with Helen over the last almost 8 years, with our paths, interests and even pets taking very similar turns. With plenty of late-night meetings, and chats about random pathways, animals, and inevitably rugby.

I have learned so so much from Helen, enough to know that I still had multitudes left to learn, but what I do have will stay with me.

Helen was exceptional, and I miss her. I feel privileged to have known her and to consider her a friend and send my sincere condolences to all of Helen’s family and friends.

Rest well Helen x