Rene and I had ocasionally quoted the following "Sisters by chance, friends by choice". That descibed our relationship, and the journey we took to-gether. Rene was a personality, larger than life who impacted on all who met her. Strong, resilient, creative, generous and always controversial. Rene was first diagnosed with Breast Cancer when she was about 40 yrs.(1986) She fought that with energy and humour with only a few sharing her really dark hours. Always looking great, she could turn heads with her style, warm open smile, and sheer presence even as she battled her cancer. In October 2000 Rene was diagnosed with liver cancer which was a secondary to the breast cancer. Once again, her battle was a courageous one, which inspired all those about her. Rene chose to die in her home, in Zihautanejo lying in her bed overlooking the magnificent bay. David, her husband, and Rawea, her daughter were by her side and attended to her as was her wish. Mexico became her adopted home and she loved the people, and became a part of that community. Farewell my sister, I miss you deeply but are so grateful for what you gave to me.