The media fraternity in Dominica is mourning the death of up and coming journalist Esther Durand.
She passed away on May 1, 2022, at the Dominica/China Friendship Hospital of stage 4 Ovarian Cancer.
Durand started her journalism career as a freelance reporter for Dominica News Online (DNO).
She was later made a full time reporter.
She then moved to the Virgin Islands where she worked at a number of publications including VI Life and Style Magazine, BVI News and BVI Platinum News.
She was ill for some time and upon her return to Dominica, she was diagnosed with Ovarian Cancer.
Those she worked with remember her as opinionated, full of life and always willing to take on a challenge.
“Esther was a quick learner and always ready to take on any assignment given to her, no matter how challenging,” Roy Sanford, who was editor at DNO when she worked there, said. “She was a good example for all staff members.”
Sherma Laflouf, who worked with Durand during her stint at DNO, remembered her as a person with a great personality, who always wore a smile and who was easy to work with.
“I hardly ever saw her angry. Our spirit connected from the first time I met her and up to this day we remained close friends,” she said. “We never broke that bond and up to the days during her illness we remained connected. I hated seeing her in so much pain, such a kind and loving person. God called her home and it left me and everyone who cared for her so sad and broken. I believe she is in a better place today. The angels needed her more than we did. I will miss her a lot and will cherish our friendship forever.”
Durand leaves to mourn her mother, three sisters, one brother and numerous relatives, friends and colleagues.