NASH, FENTON, Barbara – On Tuesday, May 16, 2017 at her home. Barbara Nash Fenton, loving wife of Barry Fenton; devoted mother of Whitney (David), Corinne, Andrew and Brandon; step-mother of Amanda (Jonathon) and Ryan; belated Safta of Fitzgerald, Nolan, and Eli; sister of Judith and Brian; daughter of Isadore and Mirien Nash, passed away peacefully today in the presence of family and friends after an enormously courageous battle.
For 40 years Barbara dedicated her life to helping children with special needs. As a speech and language pathologist, she established herself as one of the most respected professionals in the field by developing innovative new therapies that pushed forward our understanding of autism and neurodevelopmental disorders worldwide. Most importantly, she changed the lives of hundreds of children and families, all of whom will mourn the loss of this incredible woman. Through her work, Barbara transformed our collective sense of hope and possibility in the face of adversity; reinforcing our abiding sense that a good society is a society that comforts the afflicted, and that heals those who suffer. What defined her in a professional capacity was the love she showed for each child, and their families whom so often referred to her as a hero.
“…it is the successes attained by my clients, and the pride of their parents, which brings me the greatest joy.” -Barbara
The family would like to thank Dr. Ian McGilvray and the 9th floor nursing staff at Toronto General Hospital; Dr. Joe Herman at MD Anderson; and Dr. Ralph Hruban at John Hopkins and Dr. Sheldon Fine for their dedication and support.
Donations in support of children with special needs can be made in Barbara’s honour at: www.gofundme.com/barbara-nash-fenton-foundation<http://www.gofundme.com/barbara-nash-fenton-foundation>