Elaine Ford passed away on February 3rd, 2016 at the age of 68 in Nanaimo, B.C.
After fighting MS like a warrior for 43 years, Elaine died peacefully surrounded by family.
Elaine was born in Bury, England on 27th October, 1947. At the age of 13 she welcomed an addition to her family when her sister Alison was born. She was devastated to lose her Father at 16. This caused her to change her immediate school and career plans so that she could help support her family and raise her younger sister. Elaine soon found solace in her husband Ian, whom she married on June 1st, 1968. She welcomed her daughter Lisa in 1970, and then her son Charles in 1972. In 1981, her husband’s career in the pulp and paper industry took Elaine and her family on a new adventure, initially to Albany, New York, and then to Cowansville, Quebec in 1982. Elaine managed to establish a close group of friends who she remained in contact with for the balance of her life. In 1989 the family moved to Nanaimo, BC to start another new adventure. Once again Elaine was able to establish another wonderful group of friends despite her increased disability from MS. Elaine continued to travel as much as possible until the very end of her life, and she enjoyed many trips back to her beloved England to see her oldest and dearest friends and family. Elaine’s grandchildren were one of the biggest sources of joy in her later years, and much of her travel centered around them.
Elaine continued to fight the progression of MS while being incredibly appreciative of all the help and assistance she received. Elaine made many close friendships with her caregivers and drew great joy from sharing in their lives. This support was critical, along with the unwavering support and love from Ian, in providing Elaine the strength and determination needed to tackle all of her health problems. She will be remembered for her kind heart, determination, courage, strength and resilience. She thought her glass was always half full.
Elaine is survived by her husband of 47 years, Ian, daughter Lisa (Mike), son Charles (Shelley), grandchildren Jonathan, Isabella, Thomas, Gwynnevere, Peter and Claire, her sister Alison (David) and her nephew Gary (Jeni).
Elaine was predeceased by her parents, Charles and Lilian Holland.
Her family would like to offer its warmest gratitude and appreciation to all the staff on the 5th floor, 6th floor and Palliative Care Wing at Nanaimo Regional General Hospital. She received exceptional care and support throughout her last few weeks, and she was very grateful for that.
Memorial donations in memory of Elaine may be made to
the MS Society of Canada.