Letters to the editor
Deirdre Kelly’s Transformative Spirit Will not be Lost
John Hillian, Victoria
Volume 32 Issue 7, 8 & 9 | Posted: October 9, 2018
I wanted to write to the ICN to thank you for the beautiful tribute to Deirdre in the Spring issue of the paper. All that Pat Jamieson wrote is true, and more.
When Deirdre was first diagnosed with cancer last August, she wrestled with the why, and the how it could possibly fit into the vision and trajectory of her life. I still pose those same questions.
Perhaps the struggle to accept the loss of Deirdre was made more difficult because of the closeness of our relationship. Yes, we were married, but we were partners in so many ways, in solidarity, in family, and in supporting each others’ projects and dreams genuinely with love and understanding.
I wanted to write to the ICN to thank you for the beautiful tribute to Deirdre in the Spring issue of the paper. All that Pat Jamieson wrote is true, and more.
When Deirdre was first diagnosed with cancer last August, she wrestled with the why, and the how it could possibly fit into the vision and trajectory of her life. I still pose those same questions.
Perhaps the struggle to accept the loss of Deirdre was made more difficult because of the closeness of our relationship. Yes, we were married, but we were partners in so many ways, in solidarity, in family, and in supporting each others’ projects and dreams genuinely with love and understanding.
Naturally memories are important, but in these early months of grief, I have such longing for the closeness that we had, and the plans that will never be fulfilled. So all I can do now is to promote Deirdre’s art, that she put so much of her energy, passion, and creativity into in the years after she left the Office of Social Justice at the Diocese.
Deirdre believed very much in the transformative power of art. When we look at her many works, we see more than just a glimpse of her. First of all we see her wide range of interests, then her love of the natural world, then her playfulness and whimsy, then her sense of spirit, and almost always present in her work is her strong sense of justice.
As I write this, I am preparing to show Deirdre’s art at our house as she will be again a part (for the 11th year) of the Fernwood Art Stroll, studio tour.
Deirdre was so grateful to all the visitors who came to offer support during her illness, or who sent cards, supportive messages, and even financial help. I want to echo that sentiment again here to include the many friends who have continued to offer their support to me in these past few months. We received many kindnesses as a family after our daughter Emma gave birth to our first grandchild just a few months ago.
To continue Deirdre’s vision that a better world is possible, I am saving whatever monies come from the sale of her paintings , so that I can make some donations to causes that she believed in.
So thanks again to Pat for his kind words, and to Marnie Butler for her article in the Spring issue of the paper. Deirdre is no longer by our side with her laughter, insight and empathy which she shared so beautifully, but her spirit is strongly present amongst those who knew and loved her, and that will not be lost.
(John Hillian was Deirdre’s life partner.)
John Hillian, Victoria