On September 26th 2021, my mom, Debby Mantell's, six year battle with cancer came to a peaceful end. When first diagnosed in the summer of 2015, she was extremely afraid, as anyone would have rightfully been, and wasn't even sure if she wanted to fight it. Despite her fears, my mom fought her cancer as hard as she possibly could have and beat the odds numerous times, astounding her oncologists. Her strength will be an inspiration to many and she will be deeply missed.
My mom didn't want a service of any kind, so instead I have decided to run a fundraiser to benefit the Connecticut Humane Society in her memory. She absolutely loved animals, especially cats and dogs. She had always told me that if she ever won the lottery, she would donate as much money as she could to animals in need. Every time she brought her senior chihuahuas, Nacho and Chacha, to the vet, she would make sure she brought some cash to disperse into the multiple containers lining the counter that were collecting money for local animal charities. Each pet she had became her priority, and if it were possible for her, she would have housed every dog without a home!
Thank you to each and every one of you that decides to make a contribution of any kind. We could all learn a little something from my mom, but what will stick with me most is to have courage and strength even in the darkest of your days. Never give up hope, and pet as many dogs as you can along the way.
Emily Mantell
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