TRIBUTES have been paid to a "kind" and "loving" mum-of-six who died from cancer.

Totton's Nicola Louise Fulford tragically died of stage four pancreatic cancer just days ago.

Friends and family - who have launched a fundraiser to cover the costs of the 47-year-old's funeral - told the Daily Echo she was "brave" and "independent".

Her husband Russel, 39, has been devastated by her loss. He told the Echo: "Everything has just stopped and I can't believe that she is gone. 

"I spent last night crying and just can't get my head around it. 

"I met her when I was 16 and we've been together ever since. 

"She was my soulmate, and I've got nothing now." 

Nicola and Russel married 23 years ago and have three sons and a daughter together.

Nicola has a son and daughter from a previous marriage. Her children are aged 10 to in their 20s.

Nicola suffered from agoraphobia and anxiety. Russel was her full-time carer. 

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Nicola became unwell and went for a regular GP check-up accompanied by her husband in November 2021.

But it was only in February 2022 that it was confirmed by the doctors that she had cancer and was given only a few months to live. 

After fighting an intense battle with cancer she died on April 30.

To give Nicola the send-off that she deserved, a GoFundMe has been launched by her family.  

READ MORE: Southampton mum says 'life is not the same a year after son dies

The fundraiser was set up by Nicola's younger sister, Clare Hounsome.

She said: "Nicki was one of a kind. She looked tough on the outside but was gentle and soft on the inside. Daily Echo:

Clare added: "She would do anything for anyone. 

"We were all shocked when we heard that she had cancer, and Nicki was devasted too.

"She was only given a few months by the doctors to live, but she fought back until the very end so that she could have as much time with her family." Daily Echo:

Clare is hoping to raise £2,000 for her sister's funeral service, and so far she has raised £360. 

She added: "We are all coming to terms with living without her and are kindly asking, instead of giving flowers and cards, for donations to help her family pay for her funeral. 

"We have received some good donations so far, and we are very grateful, but there is still a long way to go." 

You can donate to Nicola's at gofundme.com/f/nickis-funeral

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