My friend and colleague Florence Schultz passed away on Jan. 27 in University Hospital of Northern B.C. after a brave battle with cancer.
I will never meet anyone who will come remotely close to Florence's tenacity, courage and integrity.
At the age of 77, Florence had suffered a lifetime of trauma, brain injury and a multitude of health issues. Yet she didn't dwell on the negative and did everything she could to help the vulnerable folks in our community.
Personal barriers didn't stop Florence from spreading her light to those overcome with generational trauma, addictions, mental health and poverty. As a member of Uniting Northern Drug Users (UNDU), Florence shared her knowledge, wisdom and unwavering compassion with many unhoused individuals.
Despite having aggressive bowel cancer, Florence fought the war to live like a valiant warrior. While visiting her in the hospital one day, I witnessed her telling her palliative care nurse that she didn't have time to die because she had so much she needed to do. Her palliative care nurse was also helping her make arrangements with UNBC to attend lectures via Zoom because it was Florence's wish to complete her degree in First Nations studies.
Florence had an extremely expressive face and had this look that would grab your attention when she was talking to you. And when she was giving you the look and pointing her finger, the words "yes, ma'am" would run through your mind. Florence was a sharp woman who didn't miss a beat even during her last days. She noticed my non-verbal signs of concern. And then came the look and the finger. "Diane!" she said. "I'm going to finish my degree!"
Florence had a steady stream of visitors come to express their love, gratitude and support. When she and I had moments alone, what she told me will stay in my heart for the rest of my life. Florence Schultz was the kind of person who loved deeply and passionately. I believe there may have been people who came across her path who misunderstood her love which was often wrapped in a blunt, direct package. Nevertheless, Florence's intent was always pure and good.
In her younger years, Florence wanted a family of her own more than anything. Unfortunately, there were obstacles that prevented her from achieving her ultimate vision of a family life. She was blessed with having two sons who Florence expressed fierce love for and was confident they would continue to do well and make her proud.
As a devout Christian woman, Florence's complete trust in God helped guide her through many storms. I believe this strong faith was the main reason why she outlived most people with similar circumstances. I also believe that Florence was called to do service and that the streets of downtown Prince George became her church where she was able to carry out her mission.
In the future, when situations arise that I feel are too overwhelming to take on I will remember Florence Schultz. The words no, can't and impossible did not exist in Florence's world and she encouraged everyone she knew not to fall into this pit of self-defeat.
I have taken a page out of your book Florence and I suggest others to do the same. And by the way, Florence, you completed your degree a long time ago.
Diane Nakamura is a Prince George writer.
