Dear friends, family, colleagues and customers

On the 2nd of November 2015, Helena left us for a better place after a life-long battle against kidney disease and multiple cancers.

Between the ages of 18 and 50, Helena experienced two kidney failures and several long spells of dialysis. But, she was also able to receive two kidney donations, one from her mother Isobel at age 23, and one from her daughter Sophie at 56. These enabled her to have a very full and happy life, including two very successful careers, firstly as a top level civil service director of communications, then as the maker of Britain's most beautiful cushions. Without the constant support of the NHS and the improvements made to kidney patient care, there is no way Helena could have enjoyed the immensely successful and happy life she had.

There is currently no cure for kidney disease, and even transplants can result in complications, including a weakened immune system, which for Helena caused her repeated cancers.

She was a wonderful and talented woman, who put her absolute all into everything she did, and we have heard so many wonderful stories. Above all, people have been touched by her incredible passion for life, her drive to continue, and her never failing humour in the face of huge personal struggle. In spite of everything she never let her illnesses define her.

We would be grateful for any donations to Kidney Research UK, in honour of Helena to help others fight on.

Thank you,

Sophie, Ron and Alexander.