Nora Ephron photographed by Annie Leibovitz, Vogue 2008
To quote a friend, “Sad news has fallen across the land: Nora Ephron has died.” Indeed sad. So very sad.
She died from pneumonia brought on by acute myeloid leukemia (AML). In case you’re wondering, acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is cancer that starts inside bone marrow (the soft tissue inside bones that helps form blood cells). The cancer grows from cells that would normally turn into white blood cells. Acute means the disease develops quickly.
In case you’re also wondering, treatment for AML includes: chemotherapy, bone marrow transplant or stem cell transplant after chemotherapy, antibiotics to treat infections, transfusions of platelets to control bleeding, red blood cell transfusions to fight anemia. Anemia is a condition in which the body does not have enough red blood cells. Red blood cells provide oxygen to body tissues.
It’s a complicated, brutal disease that moves fast. Very fast.
I am crazy about Nora Ephron. She was amazing. I mean, really, what didn’t she do? She was an Oscar nominated screenwriter, bestselling author, award-winning director.
She had a magical way of connecting with people (Silver Lining). She said and wrote what other people think. And was there anything better than her acerbic humor?!?
I also loved her sarcastic and witty portrayal of urban living, relationships and aging. From Sleepless in Seattle to When Harry Met Sally to Julie and Julia, I couldn’t get enough!
My two favorite Nora Ephron books are “I Feel Bad About My Neck: And Other Thoughts on Being a Woman,” and “I Remember Nothing: And Other Reflections.”
I hope that wherever she is, whatever she is doing, that she knows how deeply loved she was and how sorely she will be missed.
I will so miss her. I felt like she was a friend who knew just how I felt – especially about my neck! But more than that, her wit, warmth, and sigh, no more of her words that were like conversations with a best girlfriend.
Thank you for your comment, Susan. I couldn't agree more. She was indeed that best girlfriend. Beautifully said.
A light has gone out in New York and across the land. Nora was such a talent, and there will never be another voice like hers. You captured her beautifully, Hollye. And you too, Susan.
You're so right, dear Frances. xx
So, so sad. Will be in my prayers. She was a joy and a treasure.
Mine as well, E.B. Thank you for your note!
I was so saddened by the news of Nora Ephron's death, but also so surprised by it. Your post about her is lovely, Hollye.
Thanks so much, Carol!
I was totally unprepared for how weepy I became at the news of Nora's death. She indeed feels like everyone's girlfriend guiding us through stages in life with humor and dignity.
I was too, Kathryn. You're so right!