Abby Rubenson

August 12, 2004 - July 12, 2014.

Abby was a fun loving 9 year old who had the ability to make friends everywhere she went. Her characteristic feature was her ever-present smile. She enjoyed soccer, basketball, playing games, telling bad jokes, pestering her three older sisters and teasing her father. She was strong-willed, but used this attribute in a positive way always striving for her best and never giving up. She was a dedicated and hardworking student and had many friends.

When Abby first began showing symptoms from her brain tumor in February of 2013 she took it all in stride and did not allow it to interfere with going to church, school or even playing soccer. Even after her brain surgery left her unable to speak or move she still retained her positive attitude. Throughout her long hospitalization as she was slowly regaining some movement her joking personality quickly shown through and she played many a prank on visitors and hospital staff. During all of her many subsequent hospital stays for chemo and fevers she always brought her infectious smile and determination to never give up. She especially enjoyed the Thursday night visits from the University of Michigan athletes although it was hard to tell whether they were making her feel better or the other way around.

Abby worked hard at rehab and was almost to the point of walking again when a new tumor was discovered. She courageously fought on with therapies and even attending school as much as possible. Losing the use of her right side did not detour her. Losing all movement below her neck did not stop her. No matter what was thrown her way she always trusted God to be there to help her through it. She continued to smile, play games and tell jokes. Her memory was always extremely sharp and most people found it hard to beat her at card games (especially her father who continually made the mistake of betting a dollar a game until his wallet was empty). She had a sharp wit and wonderful personality.

Abby always looked for the best in people and enjoyed life to its fullest.

***For visitation and the service on Thursday please dress as you normally would have around Abby. If you knew her from sports, feel free to wear your uniform. If you knew her from school, wear a typical outfit. If you cared for her, feel free to wear scrubs. We also encourage Abby shirts and bright colors.

Visitation will be held Tuesday, July 15, 2014, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and Wednesday, July 16, 2014, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Harry J. Will Funeral Home, 37000 Six Mile Road, Livonia. A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, July 17, 2014, at 11:00 a.m. at Ward Church, 40000 Six Mile Road, Northville. Friends may visit the church on Thursday beginning at 10:00am.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are appreciated to:

The Rainbow Connection – The organization which granted Abby’s Wish Trip.

621 W. University, Rochester, MI 48307 http://www.rainbowconnection.org/donate/

Give Kids the World Village – The resort that provided accommodations for Abby’s Wish Trip.

210 South Bass Road, Kissimmee, FL 34746 https://secure2.convio.net/gktw/site/SPageServer/?pagename=donation_api&s_src=gktw_menu

Angels of Hope – Provided financial support for Abby and her family.

47496 Greenbriar Lane, Macomb, Michigan 48044 http://www.angelsofhope.org/donate

Noah’s Light Foundation – Lighting the path to the cure of children’s brain cancer.

446 West Plant Street, Winter Garden, Florida 34787 https://www.noahslightfoundation.org/donate/

C.S. Mott Children's Hospital – Pediatric Research

1540 East Hospital Drive, Ann Arbor, MI 48109 www.givetomott.org

Mott Child Life program – Helped to keep Abby's spirits up with activities and crafts

Child & Family Life Department, F8419, 1500 East Medical Center Drive SPC 5251, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109-5251

Michigan From the Heart – Supported the U of M athlete visits

Michigan From The Heart, P.O. Box 459, Dexter, MI 48130