Upon leaving school, Alison, affectionately known as Ali to those close to her, trained as a nurse at Edinburgh Royal Infirmary, achieving the ‘Nurse of the Year’ Award in 1968, which was presented to her by the Duke of Edinburgh.
In 1970, with adventure calling, (as was often the case!) Ali embarked on her travels, which included working as a nanny in Italy. She eventually returned to Dundee to pursue nursing at Dundee Royal Infirmary, before becoming a highly respected Social Worker with Dundee City Council. She later married well-known, local musician, John Casey in 1973.
As well as a passion for exploration, Ali also had a thirst for knowledge. Following the death of her husband in 2009 she embarked on more travelling and more learning, including French,
Italian, Spanish, and Philosophy, all of which she tackled with her renowned determination, optimism, enthusiasm and joie de vivre.
In 2012, Ali was diagnosed with ovarian cancer, and despite chemotherapy and radical surgery, the cancer returned four times. However, she continued to live life to the full with her incredible energy, enthusiasm and infectious, bubbling good nature. She also dedicated herself to raising awareness of ovarian cancer including presenting at an awareness event at the UK Parliament.
Despite her ongoing battle with cancer, Alispent her later years travelling as much as she could, often with good friend Lizzie. In Ali’s own words, she was “enjoying each day, and all my friends.”
Those who were fortunate enough to know Ali, loved her.
