Barbara Novak (1951-2003)
Sept. 1, 2003
It is with profound sadness we share the news of the death of
Maisonneuve contributor Barbara Novak, 52, who passed away on October 14, 2003, due to complications associated with her initial diagnosis of breast cancer over a decade ago.
Born and raised in London, Ontario Barbara attended the University of Western Ontario and received an MA from Queen's University. She is the author of plays, children's books and articles and won many
awards for her writing.
Barbara spent several years in Toronto before returning to London and marrying. She is survived by two daughters.
As family and friends gathered to remember her, Barbara was praised not only for her magic with words but, most of all, for her kindness towards others, always revelling in the accomplishments of those around her. No matter what was going on in her life Barbara's wonderful sense of humour prevailed. A perfect example was when she went for her chemotherapy treatment during the SARS outbreak wearing a Halloween mask rather than the hospital-issued masks.
Her popular article, entitled "A Brief History of My Breasts," is a
great example of her ability to intertwine pathos and humour. You can read the article here.
Barbara was a courageous woman, a great mother and wife and a good friend to all who knew her. She will be missed.
Maisonneuve contributor Barbara Novak, 52, who passed away on October 14, 2003, due to complications associated with her initial diagnosis of breast cancer over a decade ago.
Born and raised in London, Ontario Barbara attended the University of Western Ontario and received an MA from Queen's University. She is the author of plays, children's books and articles and won many
awards for her writing.
Barbara spent several years in Toronto before returning to London and marrying. She is survived by two daughters.
As family and friends gathered to remember her, Barbara was praised not only for her magic with words but, most of all, for her kindness towards others, always revelling in the accomplishments of those around her. No matter what was going on in her life Barbara's wonderful sense of humour prevailed. A perfect example was when she went for her chemotherapy treatment during the SARS outbreak wearing a Halloween mask rather than the hospital-issued masks.
Her popular article, entitled "A Brief History of My Breasts," is a
great example of her ability to intertwine pathos and humour. You can read the article here.
Barbara was a courageous woman, a great mother and wife and a good friend to all who knew her. She will be missed.
