In September 2011, my Great Aunt Nora, a resilient woman with a storied history, experienced a minor stroke in a grocery store checkout line. Instead of seeking immediate medical help, she called my mother. As a key figure in my life, she seamlessly assumed the roles of my grandparents, deepening our connection over the years.
My fascination with unraveling her story intensified as I explored her life through simple artifacts, poignant moments, and cherished memories. This body of work delves into our relationship, drawing insights from the nuances of her domestic environment.
Born in Chicago in 1926 to Irish immigrants, Nora became the first female narcotics detective in the city. Her legacy, symbolized by a passed-down star, spanned three generations. After 32 years of service, she retired in 1986, but her final chapter unfolded in January 2014 when she lost her battle to lung cancer. This exploration aims to capture the essence of her extraordinary life and the indelible mark she left on our shared history.
