It was with great sadness to learn of the passing of Linda on 2nd July 2025. Linda has been a member of CCI Support since the Waikato region was amalgamated with the organisation in April 2021. Prior to that she was an active member of the ME/CFS & FM community in Hamilton under MS Waikato Trust, since 2009.
Linda was born in Kent in the UK in the post WW2 era. She was not in robust health during her early childhood and at the age of 7 had her tonsils removed. They were the largest tonsils ever seen at that time and were preserved and stored in the hospital museum. At age 8 Linda moved to NZ with her family.
A quietly spoken gentle soul, Linda had lived with FM since her childhood years and in later years diagnosed with ME/CFS also. Despite the pain, fatigue and discomfort, she had a fulfilling work life. After studying to become a Microbiologist and Biochemist, she worked in many areas including being part of the team to design protein powders and spreadable butter.
Whilst working at the Hamilton Ruakura Research Centre, she met her husband, Graham. She later became the mother of two sons and loving grandmother to four granddaughters.
Sadly, her health was such that she took early retirement. Linda was a regular attendee at the Hamilton ME/CFS group meetings. She personified the required attributes of acceptance and accommodated her health difficulties with grace and patience and often spoke of how acceptance enabled her to live a balanced, fulfilled life. She always had wonderful ‘pearls of wisdom’ to offer at our group meetings, as well as offering a kind ear and caring heart towards others.
Arts and crafts gave Linda a creative outlet, and she was extremely skilled at knitting, hand sewing and delicate needle work. The detail she applied to her work was second to none! Babies’ clothing were her specialty, often donating them to worthy causes such as supporting premature babies.
Where Linda was unable to participate in physically energetic pursuits, she made up for it in mental pursuits. Linda enjoyed jigsaw puzzles, sudoku, and any mentally challenging tasks that kept Linda’s mind active and sharp. She also was an active member of the St Alban’s church in Chartwell, involving herself in administration duties for several community groups.
Linda is survived by her husband Graham and will continue to live long in the hearts of those she touched with her kindness and grace. Rest in peace Linda, may your tender body now rest in peace and your soul fly free from pain.
CCI Support is grateful for the kind donations received, as requested by Linda, in lieu of flowers at her service.
Written by Tracey Larsen, ex-Waikato Health & Wellness Facilitator, CCI Support.