A writer who told her story well

• Published date: 21 September 2023
• Publication title: Central Otago News

The Cromwell mother of two and Stuff reporter was widely known for being a chronic over-sharer with a wicked sense of humour and a big heart

But those traits warmed people to her, enabling her to share their stories with candid honesty and sensitivity.

Two and a-half years ago, a stage four bowel cancer diagnosis turned Jo’s world upside down, so she turned her pen to herself, and documented her journey.

Those who read her stories, or listened to her award-winning podcast Jo vs Cancer received honest insights into life and relationships with the incurable disease, all told with Jo’s trademark honesty and humour.

She also shed light on the difficulty of navigating the New Zealand health system to receive her diagnosis, and the ensuing treatment, with many unfunded cancer drugs out of the reach of ordinary Kiwis.

Born in Invercargill in 1978, Jo attended Southland Girls’ High School and studied English at the University of Otago.

After the death of her brother, Kris, in 1999, she moved back to Invercargill to be closer to family and started working for the Southland Times, writing a column called ‘‘Uptown Girl’’.

Editor Fred Tulett saw something in her and encouraged her to pursue journalism.

She moved to Christchurch to study journalism at the...