Fern Carness

WOW.. I just found out about Fern's passing. I met her in 1993 at the Wellness Conference in Stevens Point WI. She welcomed me (as a newbie) and took me under her wing. She and I stayed in touch over the years, she visited me in Phoenix and we eventually lost touch. She was such an inspirtation! She was a beautiful woman that had so much to offer the world. I will miss her but will remember her always....

Fern has been an inspiration, mentor, and friend (though her move up north
created space and waning contact). I was blessed to know Fern from the late 80's when we both were forging new careers and paths in health education and wellness. I will never forget that it was Fern who convinced me to go to my first NWI in '92 even though I said it looked "too touchy-feely"
. . . for one who was evidence-based and academic, it was what I needed and ultimately I returned faithly for a...

I knew Fern through Pink Phoenix - I have been out of the country and just heard of her passing. What a loss to all of us. She was a hoot, an inspiration and always told it like it was. I am sorry I did not get to know her better.

Ann Pytynia

I first heard Fern speak about wellness at a Society of Government Meeting Professionals conference and instantly felt the connection. I booked Fern as a speaker for a couple more events and the attendees really loved her humor and good, common sense information about living healthier lives. She will be missed by many, many people. Nancy Ahlbin, Oregon Department of Administrative Services

Having only met Fern briefly, I can say she was a gracious host, a good loving wife, and mother. Knowing Al for many years, I feel for his loss.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Carness family.

I met Fern 7 years ago when I had just become pregnant with my first child, after several years of trying. I was searching for the right bras to wear during my pregnancy and she and Margy (and the rest of the Just Like A Woman team) were with me the whole 9 months. My daughter still plays with the baby blanket Fern embroidered with her name and birthdate. I'm so sorry we have lost her -- her smile, humor and positive attitude were a wonderful support to me and to many others.

I only met Fern a few times, but she made quite an impression on me. She gave so much of herself to the cancer community and had an outstanding career. I was touched by how helpful she was after my mother was diagnosed with breast cancer and I emailed her with questions. I was invited to her home for a going away party she had for a friend. She was a wonderful human being and will be missed.

I knew Fern for almost 30 years but I can sum it all up quickly.
I consider knowing Fern a privilege and I will always be grateful for that. There is no doubt that knowing Fern made me a better person.

I just love Fern. Always will. We met at the National Wellness Conference many years ago and became instant girlfriends. The laughter was loud,the jokes- irreverent, the connection- deep. I have wonderful memories singing a concert at Just Like A Woman a few years ago. Fern took up the collection in a huge red satin bra. What a peach. I miss her and bless her presence in my life.