Inspirational women

Having been a very grateful NHS patient for the past couple of months, I was saddened to hear about the death of Claire Rayner, one of its greatest champions - and an equal champion of patients' rights through her presidency of the Patients' Association. At the age of 70, Claire was treated for and overcame breast cancer.

But my sadness also stems from personal memories as I first met Claire many years ago when she was the "agony aunt" at Woman's Own. I was in the early stages of my campaigning career and, if you wanted your social justice cause to succeed, getting Claire on your side made an enormous difference. She cared, she understood and she had real clout. I worked with her on various campaigns, mainly concerned with women and children, and learned so much from her. 

More than that, she became a mentor to me when I was learning the ropes, encouraging me all the way. Although my mother and the other wonderful women in my family had always worked, the pressure to contribute to family income meant that they all had to leave school early, with few or no qualifications. So, like many girls and young women of my generation, I had to look beyond the family for professional role models. Claire was one of several women who inspired me at that crucial time in my career and I have never ceased to be grateful.

For those of you beyond these shores, to whom Claire's name may not be familiar, here is Judith Potts, writing in the Daily Telegraph. (Judith, by the way, was herself diagnosed with breast cancer in 2008.)

Jay Rayner's tweet says it all: "My dear old mum, Claire Rayner, died yesterday, aged 79. I, like so many others, will miss her terribly."

We lost another inspirational woman this week - Joan Sutherland, whose voice was loved by millions around the world. By way of tribute, my good friend, M at Random Distractions, has posted an excerpt of La Stupenda in La Sonnambula. And here's my contribution, Joan Sutherland singing I dreamt I dwelt in marble halls, from Balfe's otherwise forgotten, The Bohemian Girl, a piece of music that has particular resonance because it was played at my dear old mum's funeral.

Comments

[Jane Olive]

A very Good Morning to you, I've only just found my way here so I have yet to read more of your writing but what I've read up to now makes me think I'll enjoy the rest! ;)

I, was also saddened to hear of Clair's death, she DID always stand up and say what she thought, yet seemed to have an abundance of sympathy and good old-fashioned sense. I think she must have been a fascinating person to meet. And then the lovely Joan Sutherland my old Mum's favourite gone as well.

However with what I've read up to now of your blog I think YOU seem to be pretty inspirational to loads of us out here as well! Hope all goes well for you with your treatment!

Kind regards to you,
Jane

[60 Going On 16]

Welcome Jane and thank you for your very kind words.

[Dancing Beastie]

Ah, a lovely song. And a fine tribute.

[Nancy]

Sorry for your loss. It's so difficult to lose those important female role models and mentors. Beautiful song with many memories for you.

[cherry]

Thank you so much for a beautiful song & the image.
I'm so glad you are feeling better,
Cherry