Volunteer Spotlight: Debora Honors Her Sister Through Service at Gilda’s West

At Gilda’s Club Kentuckiana, volunteers bring personal stories, deep compassion, and a shared commitment to ensuring no one faces cancer alone. For Debora, serving at Gilda’s West is more than a way to give back – it is a living tribute to her sister’s cancer journey and the support that helped carry her family through it.

Recently recognized with an “Outstanding Volunteer” award for her work at Gilda’s West, Debora is known for saying “yes” wherever help is needed. From setting up events to decorating spaces and working behind the scenes, she brings warmth, generosity, and purpose to every task.

Her dedication is rooted in a deeply personal experience.

The Visit That Sparked Debora’s Commitment

Debora was a caregiver for her sister Kim during her cancer journey. After her sister passed away in 2013, Debora carried forward cherished memories and a renewed perspective on life.

“I cherish my memories of my sister in my heart,” she shares. “I now live each day knowing life is a precious gift.”

During her sister’s treatment, Debora accompanied her to Gilda’s Club. What she witnessed left a lasting impression.

“I visited Gilda’s Club with my sister when she was going through cancer treatment. She was so excited to know that she was not alone in her journey battling cancer.”

Debora saw how powerful it was for her sister to find people who understood what she was facing. Programs and support groups offered practical help, confidence, and connection.

“There were several programs that my sister connected with. Her support group helped her choose wigs and caps. I knew she was not alone; so many were seeking the same support.”

Those visits stayed with Debora and helped inspire her own path of service.

Why Debora Kept Showing Up

After her sister’s passing, Debora knew she wanted to remain connected to the community that had meant so much to her family.

“I truly enjoy meeting wonderful, kind people and wanted to stay connected,” she says. “I knew volunteering would be a great way to always share my sister’s journey with cancer.”

That choice has led to years of meaningful service.

“I chose to volunteer because I knew that helping at Gilda’s Club would be such a reward and a blessing, connecting with other survivors – like my sister – that keep fighting every day.”

Love, Peace, and Gratitude

For Debora, volunteering is about more than completing tasks. It is a way to honor her sister, support others, and strengthen a community built on compassion.

“Volunteering for me is my way of giving back to support others in their journey. Giving back is my way of gratitude for the amazing support my sister received.”

Along the way, she has discovered that service has also enriched her own life.

“I treasure my family and friends. My community relationships mean everything to me. I’ve met some amazing people and I’ve developed beautiful friendships.”

She adds, “My new-found perspective and appreciation for life consists of love, peace and gratefulness.”

Gilda’s West Names Debora an Outstanding Volunteer

Debora’s steady dedication recently earned her recognition as Outstanding Volunteer at Gilda’s West.

When presenting the award, Sylvia Rhodes, Director at Gilda’s West, reflected on the impact Debora has made:

“Debora is both a friend and church member with a huge heart. Gilda’s West is grateful for the gifts that Debora shares so graciously. Whenever I ask Debora to help with an event she simply says, ‘Ok, tell me what you need.’ Debora’s ‘yes’ truly puts me at ease. She executes each event with style, flare, and finesse. Debora is truly one of Gilda’s West’s ‘Best’!”

The recognition reflects what members, volunteers, and staff already know: Debora’s steady presence helps create a welcoming space where others feel supported and valued.

Winning the Battle – Together

When asked what Gilda’s Club Kentuckiana’s mission means to her, Debora’s answer speaks to her faith, gratitude, and commitment to community.

“The mission to me means ‘We are in it to win The Battle together!’ My service to others is my testimony; and making that connection through Gilda’s Club is my faith in action.”

That sense of togetherness is also what makes one Gilda’s West memory especially meaningful.

“My favorite memory is our Women’s Day of Care at Gilda’s West. It was amazing to see all the beautiful women come together to celebrate one another. It was awesome! The excitement and gratitude for what Gilda’s Club does – and that the Gilda’s community truly cares – touched me deeply.”

Moments like these show what free cancer support can make possible: encouragement, friendship, understanding, and the reassurance that no one has to walk the journey alone.

Debora’s Message for Anyone Living with Cancer

Today, Debora continues to share her time, energy, and compassion with the Gilda’s Club community. Her story is one of remembrance, gratitude, faith, and service—and of the hope that can grow through meaningful connection.

When asked what she would want someone facing cancer – or considering walking through Gilda’s Club’s doors for the first time – to know, her answer is both heartfelt and encouraging:

“I want anyone who feels hopeless to know that Gilda’s Club is a safe, loving, and caring space for all. Gilda’s Club is here to support, uplift, and encourage anyone and everyone seeking community support on their cancer journey.”

Debora’s service continues to honor her sister’s memory while helping others find the same sense of connection that meant so much to her family. Through every event she supports, every relationship she builds, and every “yes” she offers, she embodies the spirit of Gilda’s Club Kentuckiana’s mission: free cancer support so no one faces cancer alone.