The last word uttered by a beloved daughter who died surrounded by friends and family after a long battle with cancer was the same as her first: “Mama.”
Noorline Zareh, 24, was diagnosed with stomach cancer 14 months ago. This cruel condition left her unable to eat or drink for the last months of her life and dependent on an IV for her nutrients.
Her heartbroken family announced that she sadly passed away on August 17, leaving behind her dreams of becoming an occupational therapist and competing as a triathlete.
The South Australian had just graduated with a master’s degree in occupational therapy and had found a job in manufacturing a month ago before doctors told her she had stage 4 gastric signet ring cell adenocarcinoma.
She intended to devote her life to “helping others find hope and independence.”
The last word of a Norwegianline Zareh who died surrounded by friends and family after a long battle with cancer was the same as her first: ‘Mama’
Her heartbroken family announced that she sadly passed away on August 17, leaving behind her dreams of becoming an occupational therapist and competing as a triathlete.
Noorline’s father Nuri Zareh said his “selfless” daughter would try “to hide her extensive pain from her illness so as not to upset us.”
“She cared so much about us,” the 56-year-old told the paper Adelaide advertiser.
Noorline’s mother, Jackie-Nuri Zareh, shared a touching tribute to her on Facebook.
‘During this journey she taught us how strong a person can be and what boundaries you can cross.
She touched the heart of every human being she met.
“She will be missed by all, her beautiful smile, her perseverance, her uniqueness and most kind and loving heart.
“We love you and you will be in our hearts forever.”
Noorline (center) had just graduated with a master’s degree in occupational therapy and started a job in the industry a month before being diagnosed
Noorline was a fitness fanatic who loved running and cooking for loved ones.
Her brother Jonar said she spent at least an hour on the treadmill every day and even kept it up during her grueling chemotherapy.
He revealed that one of her aspirations was to compete as a triathlete.
“She envisioned a world where people showed positivity, love, and strength,” Jonar said.
“We as a family do not view her passing as a loss to cancer, as it took tremendous courage to let go and leave behind the pain and suffering she endured over the past 14 months on this journey.”
Towards the end of her battle, Noorline’s parents were forced to take time off from their hair salon, J & N Hair and Beauty, to be with their daughter.
Business and household income then took a hit, resulting in Noorline taking a GoFundMe to help ease financial pressure.
She wanted to become an occupational therapist to dedicate her life to “helping others find hope and independence”
In a post on the donation page, which has raised more than $38,000 to date, Noorline wrote, “As I stand at this crossroads, I know my battle with cancer is far from over.”
“The courage and determination to see better days keeps me going, and I am determined to explore further treatment options to overcome the odds.
‘But I can’t do this alone. This is where I seek your unwavering support and generous hearts to help me on this journey to recovery.
“I am asking for your financial assistance to help fund my ongoing medical expenses, including further treatments, medications, and therapies.
“Your contributions will provide me with a lifeline of hope and bring relief to my family, who have supported me through this ordeal, unwavering in their love and support.”
Noorline leaves behind her father, mother, brother and friends.