Natalie Norwood

Natalie Ann Norwood, of Melbourne, FL passed away Tuesday, March 9, 2010 but lived with wisdom, strength and purpose. Born in Rockledge, FL on May 30, 1967. She is survived by her parents, Charles Norwood and Judy McGuire; brother, Charles Norwood Jr.; sister, Nicole Woxberg; niece, Chaeli Norwood; nephews, Terry Woxberg Jr., Trace Woxberg and Chase Norwood; her very special pets, and an enormous, loving extended family. She graduated from Merritt Island High in 1985, studied Pharmacy at the University of Florida and graduated with her PharmD in 1992. Upon graduation, she moved to Jacksonville, FL to complete her residency at University Medical Center. In 1994, she accepted a position in Columbus, GA with The Medical Center as a Clinical Pharmacist and a Clinical Assistant Professor with Auburn University. In 1997, she joined Holmes Regional Medical Center where she worked as the Clinical Coordinator and then the Clinical Pharmacist. In addition, she was a Clinical Assistant Professor with the University of Florida, College of Pharmacy. In 2005, she joined The Medicines Company as a Medical Scientist, promoted to Senior Medical Scientist in 2008. Throughout her career, Natalie has been published over thirty times, contributed to ground- breaking medical research, shared knowledge through years of professional teaching and participated in numerous professional organizations. Natalie just didnt stop. She didnt stop trying, giving or loving. It was said by a friend and co-worker, "Hundreds of lives were saved by Natalies work". She wasnt afraid to make the difficult choices, say the difficult things, or stand up for what was right. Natalie believed that if she could do it right, you could too...and should. She demanded perfection from herself and others. We will celebrate Natalies life with visitation on Friday, March 12th at Wylie-Baxley Funeral Home on Merritt Island from 6-8 p.m. Memorial service to be held on Saturday, March 13th at Prince of Peace Church, 6895 Murrell Road, Melbourne, FL at 11 a.m. followed by a reception at the church. Natalie was passionate about animals. She had several cherished pets and cared for hundreds of cats, ducks and birds, if it limped up to her, it got a home. In her honor, donations can be made to The Last Chance Sanctuary, a non- profit 501(c)3, at 5192 Outlook Drive, Melbourne, FL 32940. 100% of the proceeds go directly to help Brevards homeless cats. Cancer may have taken her body, but not her life. Her life is seen all around us and her impact will continue to reveal itself. Stating that Natalie will be missed is an understatement.