I write this with great sadness over the loss of a close friend to cancer. Maria was a beautiful woman in and out. She was a wonderful friend who supported me and always gave me sensible advice for over 20 years. One of her beliefs in life was the importance of being authentic with people, saying what needs to be told because it is good for the relationship and the soul. Unfinished business causes pain, and having peace is essential for a healthy and joyful life. She always kept her sense of humour and her pragmatic attitude towards the challenges of life. As a radio producer, reporter, and presenter, she had top qualities working for the BBC. Education and knowledge, management skills, excellent communication skills, persistence, patience, understanding of technology, availability and negotiating skills. She made her mark also as a correspondent for the Deutsche Welle in London. She had a way with words, investigative skills, thorough knowledge of the British political, economic and cultural scene, excellent understanding of the English sensitivities, practical communication skills, professionalism and confidence and, fundamentally, ethics. My friend was loving and real. She was a wonderful mother to her three daughters and laid a strong foundation for them. Her beautiful spirit will live on through her children’s knowledge, and I am sure they will always know how much she loved them. I am sure that she tried with all her heart to stay for them, but unfortunately, she had to go. Now I hope that she rests in peace knowing she did all that she could and that her children and Tony, her husband, whom she admired for her integrity and honesty eventually will overcome the loss and be fine. When we love people, it is comforting to know that they will always be with us in our hearts. I will see you again, my friend, sometime, somewhere, far beyond our present existence. Missing you a lot! … Viron