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Jamie Wright uploaded photo(s)
Thursday, December 1, 2022
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I met Deb when she joined the UT Health MD/PhD Program in Houston in 2013. Her outgoing, magnetic personality made you feel like a friend from the moment you met her. When I was in the hospital after an emergency surgery in December 2016 she brought me a little stuffed mouse (because I was "missing" my lab mice). I remember the day in March 2019 when she told us, her MSTP family, that she had been diagnosed with breast cancer. At the time, I couldn't imagine the fear she must be facing, but I also couldn't fathom this vibrant, gifted individual not making it through this. I went to one of her chemotherapy infusions with her during the summer of 2019. She told me that she appreciated the company but she also wanted her fellow future physician scientists to get a glimpse of what cancer patients go through. We confided in each other over health struggles during graduate school and grew to be closer friends. In August 2019 she took me to the hospital for my own health issues and stayed by my side, a wig concealing her own battle.
Dr. Deb's strength and perseverance, and the joyful light she radiated to all around her will stay with me forever. My heartbreaks for the loss of her positive energy and also the loss of what might have been. I wonder about the progress she would have made for cancer treatment. She already did so much in her 32 years here. Dr. Deb, I pray you are resting peacefully, pain-free. Dr. Deb’s story of perseverance will live on through all of us who had the honor of knowing her.
J
Joe Schmidt lit a candle
Monday, November 28, 2022
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Dear Fred and Peggy. I am so very saddened hearing of the passing of your beautiful daughter Deborah. She was such a gifted and wonderful student, a strong and confident and beautiful presence and was an inspiration to all. She gave her all to every endeavor with joyful enthusiasm and accomplished so much in her short time on this Earth. I have many fond memories of her during her distinguished career at Seabury and many fond memories of both of you as well. May you experience peace and healing during this difficult time. My love to both of you, Joe Schmidt
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Scott and Michele Winham lit a candle
Sunday, November 27, 2022
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We are so sorry for your loss. Deborah was an exceptional person. Kind, smart, funny-a student of life, a difference maker. Our hearts ache for Peggy and Fred who love you ferociously. Rest in peace.
A
Ashley West uploaded photo(s)
Saturday, November 26, 2022
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Dr. Deb, “Pookie” and beloved friend:
The West family celebrates you and your fierce commitment to optimism despite life’s challenges. It has been an honor to be part of your journey through medicine and love and to witness how you’ve continued to defy the odds.
We met in high school and quickly became close, bonding over how we danced to the beat of our own drum. You were so giving of your time and energy (I wouldn’t have past Pre-Calc honors without you). You have talked me down from my fears and shown me not to be afraid of the future.
Like the moon-bow we witnessed driving into the darkness of the Upcountry night, you are a phenomenon I had never seen before and have yet to see again. You are my superhero.
I see you in the little things from the beautiful fragrant plumerias to your special chocolate Frappuccino order from Starbucks.
I hope to carry on whatever piece of your legacy I can.
The West’s are sending prayers, blessings and all of our love to Deb’s friends and family with Aloha from Maui. She will live on forever in our hearts.
Love,
Ashley, Dieu and Robert West
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Ann Arruda and Rick Heredia posted a condolence
Saturday, November 26, 2022
My (Our) Precious Dr Deborah Ann Silverman
I met you when you were about 9 years old.
I had “just” moved to Maui and your Mom was a Stampin’ Up Demonstrator having a workshop at the Resort where I worked. Peggy and I became instantly close/dearest friends and that always included you.
You were so beautiful, not just on the outside but also your spirit was light and beautiful. It was difficult to believe you were only 9 years old. Having been homeschooled and always around adults you were quite easy to talk to. So smart. And your sense of humor. I fell in love.
I couldn’t wait for my Husband, Rick, to meet you and sure enough, he fell in love also. He just loved talking to you for what seemed like hours.
We watched you grow up into an amazing young lady.
Then came going to high school from being homeschooled to Seabury Hall. They wanted to skip you 2 grades but Mom and Dad said no so you could experience everything. So you only skipped 1 grade. But, quite honestly, the way you breezed through that was amazing in itself. All the accomplishments, school plays including musicals; we were always blown away and so, so proud. When you graduated from high school at 16, we were in awe at your brilliance and your sweet, humble personality.
You were always a part of us.
Watching you become this incredible Woman/Physician/Scientist was just, WOW! I mean, your idea of Summer fun was working with Research Scientists at the Hospital. For you to actually become and do what you always talked about took our breath away with pride.
When we heard of your illness, we were, of course, in denial and devastated. Watching “your” response and reactions to your illness actually helped us through your process.
We prayed fervently for your healing but sometimes God wants us to learn from the “whole” process and journey. Your love for all of us was so incredible!
We love you Deborah Ann Silverman! For everything you are! Thank you for sharing yourself with Uncle Rick and Auntie Ann! Thank you for loving us!
We will forever have you in our hearts and you are always a part of us!
And when the Lord calls us Home, we look forward to lots of your Hugs!!!!
D
Doreen Boxer lit a candle
Saturday, November 26, 2022
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My deepest condolences. I remember Deborah as a brilliant and kind child. She was a gift to this world, and remains a treasure in the hearts of all she touched.
C
Christina Sutrov uploaded photo(s)
Saturday, November 26, 2022
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Deb- Doctor Deb. You have been on my mind all week, all year, throughout my lifetime. You had such a profound impact on life growing up. High school is not an easy time, but you were truly one of my closest, deepest friends. You inspired me to work hard and also play hard. I loved our late night runs to no where, just to be outside and get away. Sometimes it was Foodland because that was the only thing open in upcountry Maui after 8pm. We would get a pint of ice cream and race home before your curfew at 9 or so, and then just sit in my car, steaming up the windows, finishing the pint.
Or the silly memories of running between class breaks to get pop-tarts from the vending machines, or taking packets of EmergenC powder and eat it out of our hands and watch it fizz on our tongues. Or going down to Borders to wait in line for the midnight release of the next Harry Potter book. Or crazy adventures at Walmart to see what we could find/buy, giggling the whole time.
Even after school, we kept in touch however we could and it meant the world to me.
My heart goes out to your sweet sweet parents- thank you for letting me be a part of Deb's life. I am incredibly grateful for her gracious heart. I will hold these memories close and continue to pass on the love and drive she instilled in me.
(This photo is from a friend gathering at my house in 2010ish with Kai and Rhoda as well, entitled "Feet")
'Till we meet again.
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The family of Dr. Deborah Ann Silverman uploaded a photo
Saturday, November 26, 2022
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Sally Sefton Johnston lit a candle
Saturday, November 26, 2022
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I have been thinking of Deborah non stop for several days now. I watched her page, hoping for signs of improvement. That seemed to dwindle, and I was crushed thinking that her fight was nearing the end.
I taught Deborah English and Speech as well as directed her in two school productions. She was such an eager student in every class and play she performed in. She usually sat next to me, always ready to make an observation and share her curiosity about the materials we were exploring. She was a dream to have in class, always reminding me that teaching students like her made all of the hard days worthwhile. She brought so much light to all of the projects she was involved in.
I worked with her parents at Seabury Hall for several years and followed her progress as a scientist, searching for ways to work on cancer cells. Then the news of her illness was shared with me, and I felt sure that this spunky scientist would fight this nasty cancer. I kept in touch, reading her updates, and marveling at her optimism in spite of unimaginable pain and physical trauma. I felt like Deborah had become my teacher, showing me how to take something unbearable and turn it into a valiant fight.
Much love to Fred and Peggy and all who saw the light that surrounded Deborah in every moment. I am so sorry for the loss of your beautiful, magical girl. I know she is ALWAYS with you. Praying for strength and grace in the coming days.
J
Jessica Crouse uploaded photo(s)
Saturday, November 26, 2022
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Deb has been one of the few classmates from high school I remained in touch with and someone whose friendship I have truly valued over the years.
It was always such a treat to see her and catch up on her trips home to Maui. The attached picture is from December 2015, we got breakfast at Charley's in Paia and then spent the morning at Baldwin Beach chatting and watching a honu (turtle) snooze on the sand.
I am especially grateful that I was able to see her during her last trip home earlier this year, and for the absolutely perfect weather we had for lunch at Kanaha.
I don't have the words to adequately convey my sorrow and condolences. To Deb's family, please know that she had a profound impact on my life and I have always admired her sincerity and kindness.
C
Cassie Liu uploaded photo(s)
Friday, November 25, 2022
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Dr. Deborah Silverman started as my role model, became my colleague and friend, and across the time we've known each other, became my teacher about life and living. Dr. Silverman was endlessly bright, full of light, brilliant, courageous, encouraging, and considerate - she blew me away, and I am always thankful to have crossed paths with her and had the time with her that I did.
I met her when she was as an MD-PhD scholar at UT-Houston, and the last time we saw each other was at the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium, where she was an avid, insightful scientist living with breast cancer. We don't share many photos together, but this is one I will always remember.
Deb, I will take all the lessons you taught me and carry them with me in my life, both personally and professionally. You have invariably shaped my approach to cancer care and research, and your life will forever be meaningful to me. Aloha, my friend, and may your beautiful spirit find a beautiful place to rest.
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Linda Richter posted a condolence
Wednesday, November 23, 2022
I have never known anyone so loved by so many people. Her heart was so open for the love of Christ not only for herself but for others. She will be watching for you and will be eager to show you around her heavenly home. Don’t disappoint her. Open up your heart to Jesus Christ the savior
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