This email was received from Mary (Miller) Brenzel on June 22....
It is with a heavy heart and much sadness that I send news to you today that we lost Debbie a few hours ago.
Debbie had been in Niagara Hospice House for about a week when I saw her a week ago yesterday. Karen Meyer was able to get a quick trip in and we spent that evening with Debbie. Last Tuesday, arrangements were made to get Debbie back home. However, she took a turn for the worse last night and was taken back to Hospice House in Lockport. I spent a good part of the day with her and her family. Within an hour of leaving, I received a phone call from one of her sisters saying that she was gone.
We will continue with the benefit on Sunday as planned. Instead of it as a fundraiser for Debbie’s benefit, it will be our opportunity to celebrate her life. Proceeds will be donated to Niagara Hospice. We are hoping to plant a lilac garden on the grounds of Hospice House in Debbie’s memory. Lilacs were Debbie’s favorites.
I have purchased purple “Hope” bracelets (see picture right). Purple is the awareness color for pancreatic cancer. I will be selling them at the benefit for $2 each.
Please keep Debbie and her family in your prayers.
Mary