Dear Friends and Colleagues,

We are sharing the devastating news that Toni Cole (nee Lewis) passed away in the early hours of Sunday 26th of January 2025. She died at a hospice near to her home, surrounded by the people that mean the most to her, her family.

Toni had been very recently diagnosed with aggressive bowel cancer and given a terminal prognosis at the young age of 37. True to her personality Toni faced this heart-breaking news with grace and courage, showing more concern for others than herself.

Toni had worked within the NHS in the South Essex Area for 17 years. Toni started as an Occupational Therapy Assistant in Inpatient Services, she progressed through the apprenticeship program, working hard to become a highly skilled and widely respected Occupational Therapist. Toni worked across many areas within Mental Health, including; The Home Treatment Team, The Intensive Outreach Team, The Rough Sleepers Service, most recently bringing her skills and knowledge to her current role as a Clinical Lead Occupational Therapist within Community Mental Health Services. Toni was an inspiring Occupational Therapist and a truly shining light in her profession.

Toni and Neil, her husband, first met working together in the NHS, going on to marry and have two gorgeous children; their daughter (age 9) and son (age 7) who are amazing on so many levels. Toni has always been well known for her warmth, kindness, compassion and integrity. Toni would always do whatever she could to help others, within both her personal and professional life, this is reflected in how many people love and care about her.

We know that there is a strong feeling of people wanting to demonstrate their love, support and appreciation for Toni and her family. Whilst flowers and gifts will be cherished in the moment, we hope that offering a financial contribution for her children will help in some way to support them in the days, weeks and months to come. We therefore ask that you please give what you can.

This Just Giving page was fully discussed with Toni, Neil and her family in the time leading up to her death, they agreed to us setting this up and sharing it with you.

We hope this page will provide a shared opportunity for all to express their love, gratitude and memories of Toni, whilst also supporting her family to have space and time to grieve.

All donations however big or small will be gratefully appreciated 

With Kindness

Toni’s OT colleagues and friends

Toni's Funeral has been arranged for Friday 28th February 2025 at 12pm at Basildon Crematorium, Church Road, Bowers Gifford, Basildon SS13 2HG.

At Toni's request, those attending have been asked to wear bright colours. Neil and Toni's family have said everyone is welcome family, friends, colleagues and anyone who knew Toni.

There will also be live streaming of Toni's service. It will only go live about 3-4 minutes before it is due to start.

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