9/11 Stories: Debby Borza

Debby Borza’s daughter, 20 year old Deora Bodley, was the youngest female to die on United Flight 93 on September 11th. She had been visiting her good friend, Allie, a student at Fairleigh Dickinson University. September 11th was the first day of classes at the college. Deora was actually booked on a later flight that day but because her friend was just starting classes, she asked Allie to take her to the airport early, to try to fly standby on the earlier flight #93.
Deora’s single mom, Debby, was working in San Diego at the time. As she was getting her younger daughter, 10 year old Muriel, ready for school, Debby’s roommate came in to alert her to the attack on The World Trade Center. Debby remembers thinking, this is like the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. We’ll always remember this day in the same way we remember the shock of the JFK killing.
Debby was at work when she got a phone call from Deora’s friend, Allie, who hysterically told her, “It’s all my fault”. Allie tearfully told Debby that Deora was on the flight that crashed in Shanksville, Pennsylvania. Debby immediately called United Airlines and was told there was no information but that they would call her as soon as anything was known. Debby left work to go to the Catholic Church across the street, and asked God, “Where is she?”. She heard a quiet voice respond, “She’s with me”. Just then Debby’s cellphone rang. It was a representative for United Airlines, confirming a parent’s worst nightmare.
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[@johannesbols57]

I don't want this to be taken the wrong way. But it suddenly occurs to me the horror the airline reps had to go through to make the phone calls to the relatives of those who perished.

[@gunnymose]

I stopped by the memorial when it was just a park ranger standing on the hill. I went back 2 yrs ago to visit & pay my respects. It's beautiful and it was full of visitors. Your daughter is not forgotten, none of them are forgotten.

[@milissameza5432]

I really really am sickened by her friends advice. I am heart broken for her loss, as a fellow mom who has lost her son as well, its so hard to hear what he told her. Our society is so grief adverse. I wish she had known it was ok to NOT be ok and be free to grieve how she needed to grieve.

[@mikeydanvers]

The passengers of flight 93 are all heroes. Had they not attempted to take back the plane, countless others could have been lost. We will never forget. Your daughter is a hero, Debby.

[@pattypark8548]

Thank you so very much! 😊🛸🖖👽🧐🤓😎

[@stevemichael652]

Isn’t that the plane headed towards an evacuated White House ?

[@MsRadar23]

@@stevemichael652I heard either that or the capitol building

[@darlenestewart3542]

Two million people have visited the Flight 93 Memorial. There are millions of more people around the world that would love the chance to go there and pay our respects to the heroes on that plane❤

[@GreenArrowNetwork]

These interviews are such a treasure. A testament to human spirit. When you get jaded, watch these and you will be uplifted.

[@leej3415]

Out of all the 9/11 stories I've heard this is one of the saddest ones I've heard. I can hear the raw pain in her voice and how much it hurts. Such a brave and amazing lady! Heart goes out to you!!

[@katrinaball178]

I agree with your comment. May God Bless Debby and her family

[@truthprevails7085]

@@katrinaball178 🙏🏻 Amen❤️

[@lizhorstmann-snell6856]

I agree.

[@missvicki6286]

@@truthprevails7085 h

[@hollycampbell9914]

AMEN ! 💝💗💕

[@collegeri]

I’m only 14 minutes into this..I have never wanted to hug a stranger more.

[@benjaminhoward-iu1qk]

Yes I must agree with your comment I feel exactly the same way. I've listened to quite a few of these 911 stories and this lady's story gets to me the most, her sadness and lost of her daughter just makes you want to give her a hug n tell her everything is going to be okay.

[@mrlaw711]

Me, too.

[@rocker76m88]

Same 😢

[@carolinegoss856]

Who was the guy who advised her to be a comfort to others?! It wasn’t about THEM! It was about HER! How dare he! It was HER hour of grief! He should’ve been advising the other people what to say and how to comfort HER!

[@kimbok5971]

To Debbie and all the families of the victims of 9/11: I watch all the films, docs, videos about your lost loved ones, each and every time they become available. My heart goes out to all of you. Just know that your loved ones will be remembered forever.

[@WickedlyMe328]

I met Debby when she lived near me. I found Deora’s name on a local memorial and by the time I got home, I couldn’t remember the other name but remembered flight 93. Turned out Deora and I were 10 days apart in age. I believe each one of those on flight 93 were heroes and were meant to be on that on that flight to save so many more that day.

[@jeaniechampagne8831]

This is the first story I've watched from a loved one of one of the passengers on any of the 9/11 planes. I've been wondering why we don't hear about them. Not enough coverage imo. Debby is doing a great job telling this story. She is a strong woman even tho she may feel not so. I appreciate her doing this and her courage. She has to live with her thoughts of the horror of Diora's last minutes. Thank you. So heart breaking.

[@yigalordbanette8044]

Some people prefer not to share the last moments of loved ones it's painful and traumatic. Many people from flight 93 shared their loved ones experience. Some even wrote books if you are interested. I don't agree with you about having people share its their real life heartache . How would you feel if it was your loved one? Not enough coverage? These were REAL PEOPLE. Not all of it should be shared with the public . It's private for these families

[@dianacosta5781]

You should check out Mark Bingham and his mom. He was one of the guys in the plane who managed to talk to his family on the ground, and he was one of the people who stormed the cockpit. Heartbreaking and so inspiring...

[@lisapetersen150]

there's a whole movie on flight 93 showing some of their loved ones reactions. i think its a private situation, some people just don't want to share their pain with the whole world and that's ok

[@DustinBBaker1906]

The fact this lady in times of crisis thought of others is so special to me. This is a special spirit!!!

[@catalinaguzmancantante212]

It is very special, but it wasnt good advice from that counselor.. she didnt need to cater to others. She needed to grief as she pleased.

[@xino_z]

Agreed very special lady

[@xino_z]

@@catalinaguzmancantante212 it's hard to explain but that was very good advice for this woman individually. I have had experience like this with my brother. You can't stay in the abyss for years. My Dad was teetering on the brink after our notification. He got help, told him lean on community. He got better. Mom? Not so much. She won't lean on anyone. And her burden is too much

[@taraoc1193]

@@catalinaguzmancantante212 I was thinking the same thing. If it was a year later, fine, but 30 minutes after she found out?

[@mstiff6234]

Right!! 😢

[@ruthjocaccivajjio274]

You never get over losing your child. Such raw grief.

[@leesher1845]

And in such a horrific way

[@alison4316]

I wholeheartedly disagree with "Fred", the air force friend......Debby didn't have any "job" except mourning her daughter.

[@xxv6041]

That was crazy. Who does he think he is?

[@monasutton4417]

That is exactly what I thought.

[@DeborahBorza]

I could have taken on my grief privately and through faith in my friend, I opened myself up to others. When I looked out at the faces of those in the church, wanting to be a part of my life during this time, to take care of me offering me what they could, some water, a rosary, I saw for myself how important it was to let them know that I do need them. And not just those in the church, to all I’ve met and will meet. Alison, thank you for taking care of me, making sure that my job includes taking care of myself and mourn my daughter. Your comment had me remember to check in with myself.

[@erinbeepbeep5238]

@@monasutton4417 I agree completely. When you are going through fresh overwhelming grief and shock from the loss of a close family member, your only job is to survive. You don't owe anyone anything. Really angered me to hear her friend tell her she had to worry about others instead of herself.... She just lost her daughter for Pete's sake!!!

[@X3AmySarah]

Incredibly ignorant and disrespectful of him to tell her that. Who even says that??

[@Ozefan2580]

Watching this was a punch in the gut. I've watched dozens if not hundreds of 9.11 videos over the years, but I think this one hit the hardest. Her grief is still palpable. So much loss that day, and the ripple effects are still being felt.

[@susanedrington427]

Sally, I feel the same.

[@teijaflink2226]

Same I cried through whole this video.

[@vickiw9947]

I have a daughter in college. This hit hard. 😢

[@laurenbaker8803]

I saw a virtual tour of the Flight 93 Memorial. Debbie’s daughter’s name is on the wall there. They did a beautiful job with that park and I want to go and see it. I couldn’t stand it if my niece died like that.

[@carriebizz]

I think it's pretty shitty that you were asked to worry about other people's feelings when you have every right to not be ok. Who cares if others are uncomfortable. I lost one of my babies to stillbirth at fullterm and I didn't and still don't care if others are uncomfortable with my grief. Thanks for sharing your story I'm so sorry your daughter died ❤

[@moxie5915]

THIS!! Exactly my thoughts. People grieve in their own way, in their own time. Saying that to you almost immediately after finding out your daughter was on the flight made me so angry. I’m so sorry for that, I’m sorry for your loss, and thank you from the bottom of my heart for sharing your story. Hugs to you. I’m in Pennsylvania and I feel close to your story that touched my heart. We will never forget. Love to you.

[@Tipper65]

Debbie, thank you for sharing your story. I’m so deeply sorry for the loss of your daughter. There is no correct way to grieve. It’s a very personal and individual experience. It’s not your job to make others feel comfortable around you. You need to feel and express your emotions without concern that you’ll make someone else uncomfortable. The fact that you had to deal with this horrible pain and loss, and have had to get through each and every day since then demonstrates courage. The fact that you, and so many others, have shared your stories is incredibly brave. Please know that we all appreciate that. I believe it’s important for many of us to be able to connect individuals to such a massively overwhelming, tragic event, and keep it personal. We want to help ensure the victims and their families continue to be remembered and honored. I wish you peace and love.

[@jackiemuir4160]

Oh thank god someone said it.

[@gailsirois7175]

AGREED...I feel exactly the same

[@carlapratash9100]

I am so very sorry for the pain you have had to go through 💔💔💔. And having to deal with that person that told you what you needed to do. Your grief is yours and for someone to be so rude to say you need to comfort others at that moment! As a mother of an angel son, that moment of disbelief and shock, so raw and emotional we need someone to just be there to help heal. I will be praying for you mama 🙏🙏🙏.

[@juliehernandez80]

Waterworks started when she said she heard the voice at church. She’s a sweet lady. Her daughter Deora sounded like a wonderful and good person. The other one sounds like a gem as well. Rip and condolences to the family.

[@dianaellievin]

That’s when the waterworks started for me, too. I listened to this while driving late at night on dark country roads, and when she said she heard the voice, I turned a corner and there was a lovely, well-lit church. I felt the presence of the Holy Spirit in that moment, and I don’t consider myself to be religious. I was so moved by this story, and her emotion, I sobbed deeply the rest of the way home.

[@dianaellievin]

That’s when the waterworks started for me, too. I listened to this while driving late at night on dark country roads, and when she said she heard the voice, I turned a corner and there was a lovely, well-lit church. I felt the presence of the Holy Spirit in that moment, and I don’t consider myself to be religious. I was so moved by this story, and her emotion, I sobbed deeply the rest of the way home.

[@lakb45]

Debby, I’m so sorry for the loss of your daughter. Those words seem hollow and inadequate, but I mean them sincerely. Your JOB was to grieve as a mom, not help people feel better. But it is good to hear that people wanted to do SOMETHING. A glass of water or rosary wouldn’t help, but I’m glad people wanted to be kind. You are very brave to tell your story.

[@RundellMR]

Love you, Debby! This is Michelle from TMLP. I think about you and Deora and Muriel every September and on July 4th. I remember how you generously shared your story with us a few days later, and the memorial service at La Jolla Shores, and meeting President Bush, and Deora’s handbag that reeked of jet fuel, and especially when God answered you. I saw your interview on the Channel 8 News, the article in the Wall Street Journal, and I even saw you on Long Island Medium. Thank you for being courageous and generous in your work on the Memorial, the trail, and sharing your whole story here. Like many people who have heard Deora’s story, even though I never met her, I will never forget her. My heart goes out to you.

[@snowgurl21]

This woman is a saint literally…I’m flabbergasted by her unselfishness & care for otters when everyone should be caring for her. We can all learn something from this lovely person. God bless this amazing woman & her family & may Dior Rest In Peace 🙏🏻❤️

[@Clehigh1]

Your youngest daughter is so loving & giving because you’re her mother. She learned from you. 🌈

[@donaschneider]

My heart is breaking. I want to somehow take your pain away. My 27 year old beautiful daughter was killed 4 years ago. The pain is so raw in her face ...it brings it all back. At times you feel like a zombie, other times it's pure panic because you can't imagine life without your baby. A horrible suffocation. My sweet lady, may you please find peace in your ❤

[@reeorchids]

Sending you healing hugs and prayers dear Dona💕

[@davinastanton3865]

Dona I am so, so sorry you have lost your precious daughter. I send my love to you and your family. 🌹😔

[@claire6838]

Absolutely gut wrenching… Debby, if you see this-I just want to thank you for sharing such a raw and personal story. I cannot fathom your pain, the magnitude of your loss…. and I am just so very, very sorry. I know that making those phone calls is devastating and their reactions are etched on your heart. Your strength and ability to go forward is amazing to me. You are an incredible example of being courageous and loving. Make sure to be courageous and loving to yourself and what you need. As you know, grief doesn’t go away…it just becomes more manageable I guess. Your selflessness and compassion in the worst moment of your life-offering to pray for the United Representative…it really touched my heart. Anyway, take gentle care of yourself, especially over the coming weeks. And thank you again for sharing the story of your beautiful daughter. Along with the rest of the country, and particularly those who have had the honor of hearing your story. we’ll be holding you close in thought and in prayer. Bless you always. -Jenny , OKC

[@isabt4]

We most certainly will ❤️

[@denisejaydub]

❤️

[@kathleenwindsor5679]

you put that so eloquently. ❤️❤️

[@jamiekelo]

One thing that we all have in common on this page is that even if you did not lose someone on 9/ 11 we can share our grief and human spirit with people that we have never met & hope that comfort is given to all. Evil will not break us. Debbie Borza peace to you and your family .What a great mother you are are!!❤🌹

[@bluegreenglue6565]

I appreciate her bravery and compassion for others, but I felt a bit dismayed that so much pressure was put on her immediately to prioritize the welfare of everyone around her. It's admirable to have that much emotional stamina, but I feel it's not a fair burden to lay upon another person.

[@deerheart87]

I agree

[@missyheaton1044]

I agree. I wonder if she has ever been able to really grieve her loss. I hope she has found Peace, within herself, after all these years. Her work for the Memorial, the Trail and the Foundation is amazing. She is keeping her Daughter's memory and so many others memories, who were lost that day, alive.

[@marymorenomariposa]

for real

[@anniebananie7887]

Exactly, what's with her friend saying that to her! What a jerk.

[@Bellasie1]

I agree with you.

[@Czeiner]

All the grief she is going through...I just want to hug Debby...and I love to see her face lighting up, when she's talking about her daughter Deora being around her all the time! Debby, she will always be with you!

[@linrogers4326]

It’s etched on her face, the raw pain. That day changed everything.

[@Krizz139]

My heart really goes out to Debby. It's beyond heartbreaking for a parent to lose a child but to have a child murdered in this way is beyond normal reasoning. The only consolation of this horror is when she was in church and she heard 'a voice' saying 'she's with me' and also her 10 year old patting her on the back. May Debby also draw a little strength from the fact that lots of other courageous 'angels' were on that flight and her daughter would have been comforted. Deora's spirit lives on and they will meet again in the afterlife. May God bless her and a massive big hug from afar to Debby.

[@sheilakelly4770]

Don't understand why anyone would give this the thumb down heartless people. Thank you to all the brave people who share there heartfelt stories . All those brave wonderful people who lost there lives i will always remember that day & they will forever be in my thoughts and prayers 💚

[@susanedrington427]

Heartless. They have issues. Deora was a hero too.

[@susanedrington427]

I have a feeling Deora was a beautiful soul like her mother.

[@susanedrington427]

I saw her photo. Beautiful and had such a beautiful life ahead of her. Bless her and her family.

[@susanedrington427]

Debby is an inspiration to me. Thank you.

[@linedancer09]

Debby is such a lovely, kind, beautiful lady. Her words won’t be forgotten by any of us. All the family’s are in my thoughts and prayers.♥️🙏

[@virginialopez1655]

Amen 🙏

[@jessiecoastaliving]

"People ask who, what, when, where and how? I ask, peace." Beautiful quote by Deora at the end of the video.

[@ellehm]

This story is so raw - very painful to hear. I am so sorry - you are always on our minds and in our hearts.

[@terrilandry8753]

The two or so years before my Mom died in 2011, she would say she saw 444 so many times every week. We would laugh. After she died we used it as a trigger to remind each other kids and grandkids of our Mom and Nana. When it 4:44 we scream love you Mom, Nana. My daughter died in 2014. When we walked out of the hospital in front of us was a car with the numbers 444 on it. We have always felt if is a communication between us and them. Bless you!

[@jackie5522]

I’m wondering if since the crash. Has she met other family that had loved ones on that plane with her daughter

[@myopinion8610]

I’m in tears over the grief your family endured. I’m so sorry for your loss.😢

[@bs2502]

What a wonderful lady and great Mum. She did a great job raising two beautiful girls. The things Deora had already achieved and the gentle soul she was....Imagine the heights she would have reached. Rest in peace Deora.

[@tessafox1329]

Her pain takes your breath away. Feeling very choked up. I have kids too. 💔

[@marthamartha3222]

I'm glad she was in church surrounded by people and a priest.

[@michellemahar9030]

People are very bad at knowing what to say when someone loses a child. I have lost a child and it is hell. I can't even begin to imagine the absolute shock and grief this poor woman must live through. She is courageous and loving for doing this and her daughter will never be forgotten.

[@weemaggiejiggs8832]

This is the saddest story I've ever heard, my heart is so broken for her. I just can't imagine her pain.

[@willmack5909]

Truly moved to tears by how gracious and courageous this woman was and is in sharing this ever so painful memory. That such an act of evil and hatred could bring about love, I've never in my 55 years of life ever witnessed a more Christian act than hearing about how this woman did what she did in that church. I doubt she'll see or read this but Debby Borza, you have my admiration, respect, sympathy and empathy, not just from the bottom of my heart, but my whole entire heart dear lady...

[@user-lw3yp6gw5g]

She might be one of the strongest women I’ve ever seen. In this awful, heartbreaking day she was thinking of absolutely everyone else first. When she, as a mother, was the one hurt the most.

[@mikexxxmilly]

I flew multiple times by myself as a 6-12 year old. It’s wild how normal that was in the 90s . They had escorts that would take us through the airport. I would never be comfortable with sending my son like that now days.

[@matthewjohnson959]

They use to give us wing pins and hangout in a special room before flights and through layovers. wild times indeed

[@mikexxxmilly]

@@matthewjohnson959 yep. I still have my wing pin LOL

[@sapporojapaneserestaurantk1863]

For me, it was the 70's...when all our parents ever worried about was how much dirt we ate when we were out all hours of day and night, and always a glamorous stewardess (in those days) escorting us.

[@janehoffman1200]

Debby, I stopped in at the Memorial last year and thought it was extraordinary in every way. You helped to transform a tragic spot into a place where the passengers are remembered and loved. I cannot fully stand in your grief, but I can share in your grief. Love to your daughter and love to you.

[@airicagolden6200]

When the voice said " She's with me." It tore me up😢😢😢😢 Thank you Jesus!

[@kai88875]

Debby-thank you for sharing your story. What a strong woman you are. Love is forever. ❤️

[@cckelly6417]

Not important to make others comfortable…not your job. Connecting with your own feelings is what would have been important…as you have done in this interview… Happy you were part of these many 9/11 interviews. Thank you.

[@briigee544]

So sad she was handling this on her own by herself , having to make those phone calls and then hanging up and being alone in the church, until she realized there were people around her reaching out their hands. I’m glad she had that moment in the church and let them lend a hand in whichever way. So tragic, her daughter seemed like a beautiful person

[@nebulasfart]

Damn, this story got me the most. Hearing the calls from family to family then to friends after herself dealing with this loss.

[@RS54321]

Her dad's response was bizarre-he didn't comfort his daughter for losing her child, he focused on his wife's reaction and attending to her. Then, the colonel's response way beyond ridiculous and toxic-her job wasn't to make anyone feel better; she owed people nothing-she had just lost her daughter. It was beyond sick how he manipulated her at her lowest and weakest point. His 'job' as a 'friend' was to be there for her and comfort/support her. I hope she got some good therapy to negate that sickening response and for her tremendous grief.

[@scooter39045]

I think people have different ways of overcoming grief. Maybe the colonel was trying to help her focus on other things besides her grief. Like other people clean their house or do other tasks to take their mind off of something.

[@julieg2022]

Totally agree

[@andreanne8228]

Exactly, I feel like everywhere she turned to, she was let down… my heart breaks for her

[@reeorchids]

Thank Goodness there are others too who felt the same!! I was wondering the same thing about her father and that friend… And yet Debbie was the epitome of grace, love and kindness in face of the most tragic moment of any mother’s life.

[@jerryloufretz1797]

Heartbreaking, the worst thing that a parent can go through.

[@JBoo]

My heart goes out to you Debby and your family and all who knew your hero of a daughter. ❤❤❤

[@kathyoleary4722]

Dearest mumma of Diora. Thank you for letting me hear about your beautiful daughters. My heart is with you today and every day after this. Much love.

[@lynntanner5]

I understand why Fred said what he did - he knew her and knew she had to have a purpose, to keep her from drowning in grief. My heart breaks for her and all who lost loved ones that day.😢

[@BB-xe2dh]

debbie, your daughters sound like wonderful girls. im so sorry you lost Deora so young in such a tragic way, a mother’s worst nightmare. Thank you for your contributions and continuing the education of such a tragic day and the remembrance of all that were lost that day.

[@nlcpope]

Thank you for sharing Diora’s story and keeping her memory and legacy alive. We hold her and you both in our hearts❤️. Thank you for your courage to continue sharing your story😘‼️

[@marthamartha3222]

I like to hear this 911 story's because I know I'm not the only one grieving to this day the lost of a good friend. It's horrible horrible what they did to us. I feel her pain a pain that never goes away.

[@truthprevails7085]

❤️😥❤️

[@thisisme3238]

🙏

[@xino_z]

💗🦋🙏

[@rochoa11]

Sending lots of love to Debbie ❤❤

[@desiertoscacti5388]

She is just so kind and considerate, bless that lady and her beautiful daughter. RIP Deora.xx

[@enquiringmindswanttoknow699]

Debby, you don't cry alone. My thoughts are with you and your family, god bless x

[@madameblackimusprime]

This is a prime example of the fact that sometimes people do not know how to deal with grief and they react in many bizarre ways.

[@MareRS357]

So heart breaking to hear that her daughter was on flight 93. God Bless ❤️🙏🏼.

[@denisejaydub]

As I listen I just weep for you. As a mom with a young daughter I just can’t even fathom. I’m so exceedingly sorry you lost your baby girl and for what she went through 💔💔💔

[@jakemason4357]

I will never forget and thank you for being so brave and sharing such heart felt emotional story. I’m glad I got to hear her name and more about her. I was there the end of Aug 2020. Such a beautiful place so peaceful thank you for helping contribute and devoting your time.

[@michelle-xh3fz]

That's a very nice comment it speaks volumes as to who you are sir.

[@christineoviedo5036]

After spending this Sept 11 listening to stories, your story Debby was so moving and so deeply impacting for myself. What a wonderful speaker you are and so very strong. Thank you for sharing with us all.

[@michelle-xh3fz]

@@christineoviedo5036 yes i feel the same thank you for sharing. Into spent the day listening to over 50 stories thank you.

[@LillianArch]

Debbie, my husband and I made a special point of going to the Memorial near Shanksville. We were anguished for you and the other loved ones. Thank you for your life of helping memorialize Muriel and Flight 93 and 9/11. Thank you for describing your other daughter as herself. Peace.

[@kellyk.3109]

Is that the right daughters name?

[@Bughugger]

@@kellyk.3109 Deora Bodley was Debbie's daughter's name who passed away on 9/11. Muriel is the name of her living daughter, Deora's little sister.

[@kellyk.3109]

@@Bughugger thats what im saying. She said “ thku for ur life of helping memorialize “MURIEL” Thats the living daughters name

[@Bughugger]

@@kellyk.3109 Ya, she mixed them up

[@susanford2388]

Her daughter was called Deora, her surviving daughter is Muriel.

[@karendalsadik7119]

Debra thank you for sharing your experience, memories and the loss of your daughter. Thank you so much for mentioning the other passenger from Japan who never is mentioned.

[@maryvandertoorn6661]

We're all shedding tears with you, Debby. Thank you for making yourself so vulnerable in sharing the love and pain from a mother's perspective. You truly are a courageous human being. Your daughter's memory lives on!

[@collegeri]

I’ve watched your story a few times. Last night being the most recent. Thank you for sharing your daughter’s life with us all. I’m sending you a gigantic hug on this day of September 11th.

[@thenanlife1141]

Cannot even comprehend what these people went through on this tragic day

[@paulineclarke5388]

I’m so sorry for your loss , the pain in your voice is just so sad , I hope that you can find peace ❤️

[@willettej7988]

As a mother of 3 daughters, I can’t imagine your pain. Things can never be the same. But you will see her again. I’m absolutely sure of it 😘🇺🇸🙏🏻

[@reginafallangie2867]

My family & I were at the flight 93 Memorial a couple years ago. It was very solemn & humbling & reminds you of what’s really important. We plan to go back again next yr. I will b looking specifically for Deora’s name.

[@presspound7358]

If this was very difficult to listen to … just imagine how difficult it was to live through. I am truly sorry for the loss of your daughter on 9/11. I’m so impressed by your strength of character. I am glad that you’re still on this earth to share your story… your grief and especially that wonderful smile towards the end of the interview when you spoke of your youngest daughter Muriel. Hugging you real tight. ❤️ 🇨🇦

[@deborahklinlger8565]

Your daughter died & your expected to think about the comfort of other people in the church, that priest is in the wrong vocation. He needs sensitivity training. So wrong. I am sorry for your loss.

[@elizabethtailor111]

Thank you Debby. Every year this date comes around, and we remember. We can't help it. And we look for ways to grieve such loss. So we grieve with you, and all those who suffered such personal loss. We are still here, grieving with you. We always will be here. You lost a daughter, but you gained the world. Be well.

[@nancyvickers2814]

This was heart-wrenching. You are indeed a strong woman who adored her child.

[@HaileyAndTheArt]

I appreciate the way she reflects on the daughter she lost and the amazing daughter still living. What a strong, amazing person.

[@victoriapopaz5303]

Debby I’m so , so sorry for ur loss 😭 I’m still crying for everybody that lost their lives and loved ones on 9/11 words are not enough to console u in ur pain and suffering all I can do is just sit here and listen. My prayers for you go up before God 🙏🏽 Lord comfort this amazing mother & give her the strength she needs each day & lord hide her under the shelter of ur wings may God keep u Jesus understands and knows ur pain. 🙏🏽🙏🏽🎚🇦🇺

[@excaliburjohndeere7657]

I listen to every word. I’m wiser For it. That day 20 years ago. It never stops.

[@thenanlife1141]

All of the world will remember this tragic day forever in our hearts xxx

[@tiffanijade878]

Angel numbers as a symbol for her mom is everything to me 🥺

[@vicky1rn52]

Ms. Debby, you're thanking us who are listening to this💔 Thank you for sharing your personal experience with us🙏🏽

[@PHOENIX2027]

I'm from Ireland, living in the states. I'm listening to the stories of the people, such as this lady. My deepest condolences to her and everyone who lost someone. I've nothing but love and respect to you. This person's story, is heart breaking, much love.

[@d.b.2997]

God bless you, Debby. I am so sorry about your sweet girl. My heart is breaking for you while listening to your story. Please know that even 20 years later that no one who died that day is forgotten and I am still praying for you all.

[@christina-m]

That priest was so wrong. It is NEVER the job of a mother, who only seconds before, heard that her child was murdered in a terrorist attack, has to comfort people who want to help her. That is completely insane. Everyone has a story of that day and it is ridiculous to tell a parent of one of the victims to be calm for the benefit of everyone else so that they can feel comfortable telling their story of the day. Does anyone else find this crazy, that the priest said that, or just me? Debby, thanks for your story. I am so sorry for what you and your family have been through.

[@Bbouy1HD]

The priest didn't say that, the friend did. Odd assumption. Not to mention, she herself said that it did her well having that mentality.

[@kturby5489]

I didn’t catch who said that to her… whether it was her “friend” or the priest, but I totally agree with you!! Whoever said such ignorant things to this poor mother, is a despicable person.

[@christina-m]

@@Bbouy1HD how is it an odd assumption? She literally said "the priest was there, someone had got the priest, and he turned me around and said..." But even if it was'nt the priest who said it, someone did and that someone was very wrong. Even if it was her friend, didn't she say he was a colonel? He should have known better too.

[@Bbouy1HD]

@@christina-m Assuming that what he said helped her mentally deal with it, I find it odd that you think that mentality is objectively wrong. Whatever works for someone else is fine. Don't stress.

[@lsf71]

Staying at work till noon knowing your daughter is on a flight...she managed to do so much after the minutes she found out of the death. So strong.

[@LLandP]

Debby, oh my gosh! I am so sorry for the torture you and your family has gone through! May God bless you!!

[@mothershelper1981]

I'm so very sorry. Thank you for your courage.

[@jipfluffy2143]

So sorry for your loss. I can’t imagine loosing your daughter. God bless you.

[@serenawilliams6138]

My heart broke for this mother. I rarely cry over stories but I burst into tears hearing her talk about telling her ex husband that they had lost their daughter. I can’t imagine what she went through, the shock of your worst nightmare unfolding like that. I have a daughter, and know for a fact that I would not have handled that gut wrenching loss with so much grace. She is incredibly strong and amazingly composed discussing her story. She cared so much about others in her own profound grief. My heart completely goes out to her and even though it’s been over 20 a since this tragedy, the horror of everything that happened never goes away.💕

[@AdventuresofEmilyandLily]

By far the most heart wrenching 911 story for me

[@kfordgal]

This really got to me 😭💔 I'm so so sorry for this awful loss may your dear daughter be at peace, to all her loved ones what they have suffered 😢 you can clearly see the heartache Debby is feeling and going through no parent should have to suffer the loss of a child and even when she found out about her daughter she was making sure other people were ok before her needs she's remarkable 😔 Debby I send my love and condolences, take care 💕 xxx

[@-mattwood]

Deora deserves to have her story told. Her name deserves to be remembered. So many stories of people who have passed and come back speak of an overwhelming peace that they experience - a peace that erases all the trauma of their passing in an instant. I hope that is true. I hope that is true for those whose lives were taken so senselessly on that day. We who remain here are the ones who carry the pain and loss. One day I hope the reality is that you can see each other again.

[@doremefasolateeda]

You have told us a beautiful story.

[@isabt4]

Oh my goodness gracious! What a beautiful, beautiful soul of a mother! And your two daughters sound like they also have that very special beauty. Diora (apologies if I’ve misspelt her name) is most definitely there with you, gently sending all those feathers your way to let you know, and her beautiful soul still says “I say peace” ❤️❤️❤️ Thank you so much for sharing this with us 🙏❤️

[@catalinaguzmancantante212]

I find it outrageous that she was adviced to cater to other peoples needs during her early grief

[@susanstaples6171]

I think for many of us who have devoted our lives to service thissu have been am exceptional gift. I understand your concern. Many of us cope with loss in different ways. I don't disagree I just pray your heart is open to many ways of responding to unimaginable loss. I have one child and if I lost him the only thing that would keep me sane is being reminded of my duty to support others. Without that prompt, I would likely devolve into destructive behavior which would dishonor the memory of the person I lost. Don't know if this is logical, maybe not, just know this would be the most healing advice I could be given. Best, Sue

[@AllenFreemanMediaGuru]

When my wife suddenly passed unexpectedly in 2018, the best advice I got from someone was -If you don’t feel comfortable talking or going somewhere, you don’t have to! So I bowed out of some gatherings. It would have been worse grieving in front of others.

[@gmaneis]

Thank you so much, Debby, for your message of love and hope.

[@californiahiker9616]

Thank you so much Debby for sharing your story. Deora had a very short life. She had a mom who loved her very much! That love is never lost. Hugs to you and your family! ❤

[@reginafallangie2867]

I don’t understand her being told that it’s her job to make others feel comfortable…Especially those who have no idea what she’s been thru

[@mrsjobo6458]

The memorial is beautiful. So haunting.

[@user-lo5sp3us5h]

Debby I wish I had a contact for you because my story may be lengthy. I just watched this interview today 6/18/23 and was struck by a coincidence of the clock story of you and your daughter Deora. My son Scott was born at 10:08 A.M. and since the day he was born there was a connection between us in which that time came up so often from all these years ago. I worked for 33 years for Safeway stores and no matter what item I weighed, if it was anywhere near ten it was 10lbs 8 oz. or the price would be $10.08. Any time I happened to glance at a clock it was always 10:08 either A,M. or P.M. I lost Scott in 2015 at the age of 52, he passed away at 9:32 A.M. I laid next to him and rocked him while telling him goodbye. I left his room and went to the nurses station, her clock read 10:08 A.M. I thought this would end after he had left but it is still happening today and each time I smile because I know it is a message from Scott for me. And so I believe yours is a message from Deora. I am so sorry you lost her, I have lost 3 of my adult children in the past 15 years, each of them in their early fifties. We never forget them and learn to live with the grief but we somehow survive the loss even when it breaks our hearts. Thank you for telling the story of this lovely young woman, my heart goes out to you.

[@reeorchids]

I am so sorry for your loss. As a mother myself I know the most tragic thing for a mother, would be losing your child. And you lost 3 😢 Tightest hugs to you. Sending you healing prayers ✨ Sending Debbie so much love and healing prayers ✨ I draw so much inspiration and strength from you both. Thank you.