There have been many chapters in my Mum’s life. The last final chapter is not the way I will choose to remember my Mum and nor will it be the way she remembers any of us. Over the last 10 years she at first battled courageously then later silently, as she endured the crippling symptoms of early onset Alzheimer’s disease. I have long ago said goodbye to the sagacious, spirited and sincere soul that was an inspirational teacher and my devoted and caring Mum. However, her final sudden passing remains a shock and comes with a mixture of emotions to process. With Alzheimer’s they say the oldest memories die last. Certainly, that was true when close school and college friends would draw a chuckle from Mum by telling a wild tale from back in their day. The tales of her youth were unbelievable. Mum and her friends hitch-hiking all over the country. Even phoning in sick the first week of her summer holiday job while she jumped in a sports car to Italy with a man she had just met! The man she later married, my Dad. The Mum I remember best is the loving Mother and Teacher of my childhood. She tirelessly balanced her devotion to us as kids while also remaining a dedicated teacher. Long after we went to bed, Mum would be doing her teacher preparation. Yet, she always had time to chauffeur us around on an endless schedule of clubs and play dates. I am very grateful for the rich childhood experiences she provided. When it was the holidays, she took us everywhere, the beach, museums, Art galleries, workshops, swimming, the countryside and of course her beloved Carlisle. She filled me with a love of Art, Science and Literature and life-long passion for learning. She was a beloved Grandmother to Orson, He asks, “Is she still alive just a little bit?” The little bit alive, was how he mostly knew her and that was always enough for him. Her love needed no words. I wish they had enjoyed more time together. She will be remembered by many a grateful student and their parents for her inspirational and dedicated years teaching Early Years. Barbara will also be remembered fondly by friends and family for being quick to laugh and for her loyalty and openness. She remained close friend with her circle of school and college friends. By every account they were a wild bunch and I wish I could remember more of the stories. Please do feel free to share stories, life events and photographs in the contribution section on the tribute page. I am very grateful for all the support from family, friends and carers who have offered support to both Mum and I, particularly as we all struggled to cope with the ambiguous grief suffered during her illness. This is finally the end of a long battle. Mum left this world as she arrived, with baby soft skin, a childlike innocence and a final act of defiance. She is finally at peace and having a well-earned rest. Love you Mum.