Pippa’s connection with Dunedin started in 1999, when she moved there with her two young daughters. She left Christchurch and courageously started a new life again on her own and this was one of the hardest decisions she has ever made. However, the importance of having family there helped her confidently start this new chapter in life. 

As she and her daughters settled into this new life, Pippa found work and established her roots. Eventually she ended up buying the house she still lives in today. Her connection to this place, the ‘valley’ as she calls it, has grown through finding stability, independence, and a deep sense of belonging there.

Asking Pippa about unexpected turns in life, a story of resilience came up. In 2009, Pippa suffered a brain aneurysm and was very fortunate to have been found in time to receive help. She spent many months in hospital and rehabilitation to help her adapt again to the ongoing challenges of that event.  Today she still feels the aftereffects of that medical event, including the loss of her ability to drive, and mobility issues on one side of her body.

She refused to let her situation define her life, but Pippa did change how she experiences and views life. Every day for her has felt a little bit more precious, as she says. Pippa spoke openly about how grateful she is to still be here, and to be able to enjoy the things that she loves. A warm house, beautiful views outside her window, friendships formed over years, are the simple things that bring her joy.

Talking about life since the traumatic experience, Pippa is very proud of maintaining her independence. She was determined to return to work as soon as she could, and rebuilt her confidence, and continued to create a full and active life, as much as possible. Pippa loves the connection that comes from working with students in her work environment and loves learning about the different cultural backgrounds that bring students here to study.

Humour has been so important in Pippa’s life, and she says it has helped her through many of life’s challenges. One thing that is very noticeable is that humour is an integral part of who she is.

Pippa talked about her garden bringing her a sense of purpose and peace; it's her happy place where she has sweeping views of the valley, forests, trees, and the birds. She has landscaped and developed her little garden with fruit trees, vegetables, and incorporated native plantings, something she loves. So, it was fitting that her portrait was captured in her garden, a place where she feels most at home.

For as long as possible, Pippa hopes to stay connected to people, remain independent, and  to make the most of every day. I asked her about one thing she hopes people will remember about her, and she said it was her ability to keep moving forward, no matter what life put in front of her.

"If something needs doing, just get on and do it."