HEALTH & EDUCATION ALLIANCE
In Loving Memory and Celebration of
Deborah Matergia
Broadleaf's first and most passionate supporter
Thank you for joining us as we celebrate and remember the life of our most ardent supporter, Deborah Matergia.
Debbie embodied grace and generosity. Her support laid the foundation for Broadleaf.
Below is a letter from her son and Broadleaf co-founder, Michael Matergia, as well as a story that we believe encompasses the legacy that she has left..
In honor of Debbie's life and legacy, before her passing, she relayed her wishes that those wishing to celebrate her life consider donating to her favorite charity, Broadleaf​
A lesser known aspect of her impact in the Darjeeling Himalayas, Debbie sponsored the educational opportunity for several students, ultimately changing their lives and the lives of their families, and future generations.​
"Someone so special will never be forgotten."
While teaching in Darjeeling, Denna (co-founder) sent Debbie photos of some of her most eager students. One of the pictures captured Debbie’s immediate attention: Yangle Tamang was sitting quietly enthralled by The Very Hungry Caterpillar. Debbie was touched by the photo of Yangle reading her sons’ favorite childhood book. She immediately knew that she wanted to foster the love of learning in this child. After discussing with Mike and Denna, Debbie decided to support Yangle’s enrollment in private school. Several years later, Debbie also helped enroll Yanju, Yangle’s younger sister, into the same private school.
For Yangle and Yanju, Debbie was family; she was not simply a woman sponsoring their educational opportunity. They wrote letters, facetimed, and shared stories with each other.
Yangle, Yanju, and their family shared a final message for Debbie:
"Someone so special will never be forgotten. You touched and blessed our life in so many ways one could ever imagine. We are thankful and grateful. You are forever alive in our heart. May your heavenly soul rest in eternal peace."