Donna's Story...

We are here to tell you about a very courageous woman and dear friend, Donna Garland, who recently lost her battle with cancer.  Donna not only was an inspiration to everyone that met her, but she also touched other people’s lives without even knowing it.  She is remembered in so many ways, especially for being kind, loving, devoted, considerate and keeping a positive spirit, even when dealt with so many setbacks.   Donna always remained focused and determined to get through whatever it was that lay ahead.   Donna now watches over her husband, Brian and 12 year old quadruplets, Kevin, Paige, Brian and Sean. 

Early in 2004, Brian was diagnosed with an inoperable aneurysm in his neck and was unable to work. During this time, Donna held the sole responsibility of supporting her family, and despite the physical, financial and emotional strain, she remained dedicated and in good spirits. While Brian eventually returned to work, he suffered permanent nerve damage to his left eye and will remain on medication for the rest of his life.

Just when it seemed as if things were looking up, the family was dealt another blow.  In the spring of 2006 Donna was diagnosed with non-smoking-related lung cancer.  In June of 2006, Donna underwent lung surgery and started her long road to recovery. She remained hopeful, and she amazingly continued to work and maintain her positive attitude.

In April of 2007, Donna started experiencing headaches and having problems with her memory.  At the urging of her doctor, she underwent extensive testing, and the worst was revealed:  Donna had three brain tumors.  The doctors were able to operate to remove one of the tumors but the others were located in high risk areas and determined inoperable.  She started radiation treatment to fight those tumors.

Donna’s battle with cancer continued, unfortunately with brain surgery to remove a new tumor that was growing inside her brain. While doctors were able to remove a large portion of the new tumor, the post surgery MRI revealed that area remained malignant and the two inoperable tumors showed no change.

Although Donna’s illness devastated her family, she and Brian were determined to keep things normal for their children by keeping them active in the Boy/Girl Scouts, sports and other activities, but needed to rely on family and friends to transport the children since she was unable to drive.  Yet even through all these setbacks, Donna always remained strong for her family, kept her positive outlook and played an active role in her children’s lives.

In an effort to help Donna and her family, her friends at work got together and formed The Donna Committee with hopes to ease the burden financially and emotionally.  Through the committee Angel Kisses for Donna was born.  One of Donna’s wishes was for her four children to have the opportunity to go to college and with the generosity of friends, family and even complete strangers, we are on our way to making this wish come true through a trust fund that has now been established.   

Angel Kisses’ vision is to not only continue helping Brian and the children, but also to reach out to the community of others in need, however we are able, including raising awareness for  various foundations.  We believe Donna would want this, as there were so many people and organizations that she always wished she could “return the favor to” and we are here to see it get done.

Thank you for giving us the opportunity to introduce you to our friend Donna, a woman who’s spirit, strength and resolve were and still are an inspiration to all who knew and loved her.

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