Janice BROOKING Obituary

We at Autistic Spectrum New Zealand have lost a founding member, and an autistic friend of all autistics everywhere.

Those who loved Jan will remember her graceful beauty, her deep friendship, her untiring wit, her fresh imagination, her warm smile, her generosity of spirit, how she lit-up at the approach of a friendly soul, thereupon the wisdom she imparted.

Many of us at Autistic Spectrum New Zealand will remember Jan forever for her many gifts, her 10,000 conversations, how enriching she was in every communication of every type, her co-founding of Aotearoa/New Zealand's very first adult autistic service, her role as senior elder to a nascent community of 8,000 - so much in need of the nurturing she provided.

Jan struggled mightily to remain buoyant while fighting long-term the increasing depridations and sleights of cancer, more eager at every turn to help lift fellow autistics lesser worries than linger upon her own woes, endlessly sharing all of what brought her serenity and joy.

Stricken by the loss of Jan, unwilling to accept such would come, right now we do not know how to mark her moving on, nor have any idea how to begin to keep the celebration her life has always been going for us all, for all autistics.

Our deep condolences to her husband, Zee, and to Jan's family and friends, confidants and clients.

Bless you Jan, serene princess of joy.