Despite her significant disabilities, Debra had a pragmatic and practical approach to her life. Debra refused to be defined by her disability… a fierce self-advocate, Debra was opinionated and remained in control of her life. Yet, for all the challenges which she faced, Debra had a zest for living and new adventures; with great humor, Debra would recount her time on a Zip Line! But without a doubt, Debra was distinguished by the many people who she would come to know and who would become lifelong friends. There was an indefinable characteristic which Debra possessed… a combination of empathy, compassion and kindness, which transformed acquaintances into friends. These friends were the threads which Debra wove into a tapestry of companionship and love. This tapestry was Debra’s greatest work.
Born in Montclair, NJ, Debra lived most of her life in Brick. For more than thirteen years, Debra resided in a group home operated by the New Jersey Institute for Disabilities (NJID). In every sense of the word, this was home… the staff truly became her family, other residents became her friends and Debra’s independence was cultivated, refined and respected. Debra attended the Ladacin Network day program and most recently participated in the Annex vocational program where she will be greatly missed.
Debra’s faith in the Lord and sharing prayer with friends helped Deb in her graceful acceptance of her final diagnosis. She was tenderly attended to by the NJID staff and the Van Dyke Hospice Team Seven.
Debra was predeceased by her parents, Marian and Frank Abramson. She is survived by her brother, Glenn and his wife Nisreen, aunts, uncles, cousins and innumerable friends.
Visitors are welcome at the D’Elia Funeral Home Rt. 70 & Vermont Ave. Lakewood, NJ 08701 on Wednesday, June 20, 2012 from 9-11am. A Funeral Service will be held on Wednesday, June 20, 2012 at 11AM at the funeral home. Interment will take place at Brigadier General William C. Doyle Veteran's Cemetery in Wrightstown.
A thoughtful tribute, in lieu of flowers, would be donations to the Debra Abramson Memorial Fund, c/o of NJID - 10 Oak Drive, Edison, NJ 08837.
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