Cathy M. NORRIS

NORRIS, Cathy M. former client, nurse, and Board member at The Haven, took her final journey from Tucson on Friday, July 14, 2017. Born June 25, 1937 in Elkhart, IN, she made her home in Tucson, AZ, where she had a long and wonderful relationship with The Haven. First as a client, and then as the nurse for more than 25 years, her impact on the Tucson community was deep, warm and long lasting. To quote Cathy, "I didn't have to go to work, I got to go to work". She lived a long life of friendship and joy which included graduating in 1964 with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, with Distinction, from the University of Arizona's College of Nursing. Amongst other adventures, free-spirited Cathy worked as a pediatric nurse in the Army (stationed in HI), and, subsequently, Cathy received the inaugural Chrysalis Award, conferred on individuals who have greatly benefitted the Tucson community.  The Haven became Cathy's family. While working as The Haven's nurse, Cathy chose to live in a cottage at The Haven: The Haven and its clients became Cathy's life.  Cathy was the epitome of The Haven, in every way: in service to others, as a role model, as a friend; she was kind, gentle, humble, with a quiet determination. Women would walk up to her even in her final days to tell her how much she had meant to their lives. Staff, as well as clients at The Haven, say that Cathy was integral to their recovery; that she believed in them when they themselves, and others, couldn't. Prior clients, now on staff at The Haven, continue Cathy's legacy. Cathy and friends thank The Haven for giving her 37 years of a constructive and happy life. (The Haven says it should be the other way around: Thank you, Cathy.)  Cathy loved to make women laugh: she was especially known for her colorful, crazy hats, for her silly socks, and for her love and devotion to her pets, including Omar, her last puppy. Even until very recently Cathy would come to The Haven to run surprise fire drills: she would wear a red plastic fire fighter's hat, and bring Omar with her.  In Recovery herself, and as a founding member of the Sober Sisters (a group of women dedicated to being role models for a life in Recovery), she lived to make women understand that recovery from the disease of addiction to alcohol and drugs is possible and that life in Recovery can be rewarding for women and their children. She showed, too, that life can be fun. Cathy lived a good life.  As many have said over the last few days: Rest in Peace, Cathy.  Cathy's passing was from complications related to Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).  A Memorial Service will be held at The Haven on Saturday, August 5, 2017, at 10:00 a.m. All who knew Cathy are most welcome to come to share in her memory.   Cathy asks for donations to be made to the Cathy Norris Clinic at The Haven, 1107 E. Adelaide Drive, Tucson, AZ. 85719. Donations will support the medical needs of The Haven residents and their children.