Blossum Gilmour

I will always remember Blossum from our PBI training and time in Jakarta. She was a brave person who was always herself. I remember going with her to an NGO in Yogyakarta that worked with HIV positive people. We had very little Indonesian at the time but despite that Blossum was a force. She was able to convey new knowledge and make people feel safe and understood with, maybe, a vocab of about fifty words at that point. I really admired that and it taught me a lot about what teaching should actually look like. I will not forget her. 

Rebecca Prestwood

Blossum was such a special human – a tower of strength and beauty – the kind of woman we all want to be like! I can only picture her beaming and/or laughing. I have really happy memories of running “the hash” with her in Khartoum, of brilliant dinner time conversation, of laughing over drinks…She knew how to live with passion and a lust for life. What an adventurer! And such determination to speak for those with no voice and fight injustice. It really was a privilege to know her. Sending love and strength to you and her family. Xxx

Jenny Cox

I have vivid memories from our time in Sudan, Blossum giving her time to guide us all through yoga and fun games of squash in those outdoor courts. She was such a light to be around and a delight to spend time with you as a couple. Much love, thoughts and hugs to you at this time of deep and unexpected sorrow.

Tracey Deal

When we met you guys in Sudan it was obvious how special you both are. Blossum’s constant good humour in any circumstances struck me. No matter the situation she’d find the good in it, nonetheless indignant about any injustice she encountered song the way. She was a tower of feminist strength. The joy and love she constantly shared was infectious. People wanted to be with her. She was adventure and joy personified. 

Ben Garbutt

My best memory of Blossom is around the yoga classes she instructed in Goroka at that big house in Pacific! I recall being pleasantly surprised that she was a yoga instructor, the first class I went along with Angela and I was totally shocked at how flexible Angela was that I cracked up laughing and both Ange and I went into hysterics. Anyway, I loved those afternoons and have always longed for them after they ended. Stay strong ! Hold her memories close xx

Sally Watson

 

Diving & sharing the wonders of the oceans in Mauritius, playing cards in Singapore as I waded the depths of a cancer journey, and other shared occasions brought love and happiness to me; your wedding in Canada was so sooo beautiful- with Lake Emerald reflecting the beauty of your love and shared joy 

Clare

Blossum was my world. For 22 years she led me on amazing, simply unbelievable adventures and helped me build a fulfilling life of helping others. We made so many incredible, awe-filled memories that I will be forever grateful. I will always miss her, and I will never forget her. Our most recent trip to the Galapogas Islands was a true highlight for both of us. It was Blossum’s dream since she first watched a David Attenborough documentary. Her joy at seeing the Blue Footed Boobies was so infectious. Her excitement when diving with whales sharks, marine iguanas, hammerheads and dolphin pods was shared by both me and Laura! What an experience. Blossum said it would not be a once-in-a-lifetime trip because she wanted to go back. Maybe I will have to do it for her again sometime. So much of the world to see still.

David

Blossom was such a wonderful combination of kindness, strength, and good humour. Plus open minded, curious and with a great sense of humour. All problems met and conquered with a smile or a laugh, backed up by a fierce sense of justice.

Jenny Asman

Blossum was such a wonderful, caring, fun adventurous person. I am such a better person having met you both. Thank you both for being so welcoming when we met in Indonesia, and your great senses of humor. She was such a great athlete and always had a smile on her face. My deepest condolences.

Karen Zientek Richardson