Donna Lawson

It is with profound sadness that the family of Donna Lawson shares the news of her passing on February 11, 2015. Donna passed away at her home in Coquitlam surrounded by her loved ones and in the care of Tri-Cities Home Health. Donna will be dearly missed by her husband of 38 years David, her children Julie (Mike Leo), Daniel, Theresa and her cherished granddaughter Emily.

Donna was born in Montreal, Quebec to Frances and Robert Sessenwein and grew up in Notre Dame de Grace (NDG) with her brother Peter, and her sisters Diane and Carol. Donna attended Villa Maria High School and completed her CEGEP at McGill. Donna continued on at McGill University and graduated in 1977 with her BScN in Nursing. Donna met her husband David in university; they were married in October 1977. Donna worked as an Registered Nurse and a Clinical Nurse Educator at the Montreal Children's Hospital. Her career took her to the Royal Victoria Hospital as the Head Nurse of the Accident Service
(Orthopaedics). The family lived in St.-Lambert, a suburb of Montreal.

After the birth of their three children Julie, Daniel and Theresa, the family relocated to Coquitlam, British Columbia. Donna worked as a nurse at Eagle Ridge Hospital and Royal Columbian Hospital. Donna then transitioned from Acute Care to Community as a home care nurse within Burnaby, New Westminster and latterly Tri-Cities Home Health. Donna retired in 2012 as a Team Leader in Tri-Cities Home Health. She maintained close friendships with many of her nursing friends across Fraser Health.

Donna was also very active in the community through St. Clare of Assisi Parish. For many years Donna volunteered as a teacher in the religious education program (PREP) preparing young students for their First Communion, Sacrament of Reconciliation and Confirmation. Most recently Donna was involved in the RCIA program assisting adults with their journey to become Roman Catholics. Donna was also involved in an outreach program with other Nurses assisting cancer patients, a Prayer Shawl Ministry, and was a member of St. Clare's Catholic Women's League. Donna reenergized with dear friends Patricia, Lynda, and Vanessa in a small faith sharing group.

Donna survived a battle with Breast Cancer in 2010 and later used her experience to counsel many women through their difficult journeys with this cancer. She also fundraised for the Canadian Cancer Society in a team under the "Relay for Life" banner for more than 10 years. As a member of the "Olympic Wanabees" team, her group achieved top 10 status in each of the last 2 years.

Donna loved to travel and visited many places around the world with friends and family. Donna's travels brought her and David to the Caribbean, Mediterranean, Northern Europe and the Baltics, Alaska and all through Canada and the United States.

One of Donna's proudest moments was when she became a grandma to Emily Victoria Leo on July 30, 2014. Donna's joy at being able to spend time with Emily was better than medicine.

Donna also enjoyed her trademark blue Mini Cooper, her Starbucks Coffee and sharing in her Book Club. Among the many things Donna loved, she was passionate about running. She completed her first half-marathon with her daughters shortly before being diagnosed with Esophageal Cancer in August 2014.

Donna's battles with cancer were very difficult but were met with great courage. Donna inspired everyone with her strength, determination and positive outlook on life. She will be remembered for her selflessness, kindness, generosity, enthusiasm for life and her love of family. Donna had an unforgettable laugh and in the breeze of the large hemlocks behind the family house, we can still feel her presence.

The family would like to sincerely thank Donna's family physician, her palliative care physician, the palliative care nurses and many other professionals and dear friends for taking such great care of our Donna and supporting our family through these challenging years.

Donna also leaves behind her mother Frances Sessenwein (Montreal), sister Diane James (Robert), brother Peter Sessenwein (Dianne), sister-in-law Heather Baril (Dan), brother-in-law Mike Reagon (Cindy) and many nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Canadian Cancer Society, Relay for Life Olympic Wannabees or St Clare of Assisi Building Fund with thanks.