Spectra Crew 21:42.84N 19:59.93W

Jo,

It was with great sadness that we learned today that Jo has lost her battle with cancer. I can not think of a single instance where someone has put up such a determined and valiant fight only to finally be beaten by this nasty disease.

            We first met Jo and Martin when they welcomed Norma and myself aboard Magnum their yacht for a delivery trip from Brighton to Ramsgate on a bitterly cold winters day in 2006. That was our first meeting with Jo and our first trip to Ramsgate. Without Jo and Martin and of course Magnum we would probably never have come to Ramsgate, joined the yacht club and met such a great bunch of people, some of whom have become true friends and confidants. I would like to count Jo amongst those and I will miss her terribly. For Martin I can only express my deepest sorrow, offer my support and say that my door is always open, my shoulder available and my ear ready to listen.

A light has gone out in the world and tonight as I sail across this ocean I will look up at the billions of stars spread across the firmament and hope that one belongs to Jo, she deserves it.

Paul Russell a friend.

            Following on from Paul’s words above, these alone can not express the loss and sorrow we feel for Jo our dear friend who fought so vigorously to defeat this horrible disease that took her from us. We will miss you Jo and for Martin whom you leave behind we will do our utmost to support and comfort him at this very difficult time.

Life was so short for you Jo but you crammed it full of love, happiness and laughter. Your journey in life is done but the memories you leave behind will always remain.

            Norma Russell a friend

Jo,

Today is a sad day to hear that you have finally been defeated in your battle, lets hope that your experiences and how you eloquently described them in your blog will give comfort and hope to others.  My lasting memory will be how stunning you looked when we thought you had won the first battle, life is cruel.  I have only known you for such a small part of your life but we had some wonderful times on Magnum and needless to say in the yacht club afterwards, our gang has lost a shining star. Martin, so sorry for your loss, I hope you look back on all the happy times you shared with Jo and that they will comfort you as you move forward. Sadly unable to be around for you now but I know you have lots of people to support you in this difficult time.

Steve