The Gift of Cancer

Debra's biggest love was writing poetry and "spoken word." She wrote about finding purpose in life, love, death (including her own), consequences of war, depression, family, memories, and, of course, facing cancer and the reality of her impending death in a way in that offers comfort to fellow cancer victims, and, in fact, to all readers and listeners. At times eccentric in nature, talented as an actress, singer and musician, Debra was, most of all, extremely funny and was known to be the "entertainment" during chemo sessions. She raised the spirits of all around her with a heart full of compassion and sensitivity towards others. Debra's versatility was demonstrated in her careers as location manager for motion pictures and researcher for supernatural television shows, "Backstory" and "Strange Universe." For years, she studied acting, dance and voice in New York City and received her Bachelor of Arts degree in acting from the United States International School of Performing and Visual Arts in San Diego. Raised in Newark and Westfield, New Jersey, Debra spent most of her adult life in Van Nuys and Burbank, California where she earned her reputation as a poet. She exuded pure joy when singing with a rock band called Elektra and her voice and passion were frequently compared to those of Janis Joplin.