The Legacy of Gabrielle Kraft Buckman
A Courageous Heart and Resilient Spirit
Gabrielle Kraft Buckman, a radiant soul born and raised in the heart of New Jersey, left a permanent mark on the world that transcends the brevity of her years. Endearingly referred to as Gabby, Gab, or Goober, her journey is a tapestry woven with threads of love, resilience, and a tenacious commitment to bringing light to the lives she touched.
From a young age, Gabby’s infectious smile had the power to warm any heart; the first being her mother, Cheryl, father, David, and sister, Jackie. As she grew older, this smile became known as a beloved friend, classmate, student, teammate, and eventually, clinician. In her studies, she excelled as an A student, participated as a vital team on her high school’s soccer team, and effortlessly befriended everyone she encountered. Goats, humor, her cherished family, and a network of friends spanning the spectrum of humanity were the pillars of her vibrant life.
Gabby was a beacon of connectivity; she made friends wherever she went. With ease, she illuminated a path for others through humility that allowed them to see their brilliance. In every action, she pervaded this message to those in her life, seen even throughout her infamous innovative ideas dedicated to improving the world. Her dreams have always showcased the commitment to spreading joy and fostering inclusivity.
Inspired to make a career from this dream, she attended Quinnipiac University, studying to be an Occupational Therapist. Gabby seamlessly translated her passion for connection into a professional realm. Her brilliance and warmth drew friends to her like a magnet, adorning her college years with laughter and camaraderie.
Gabby’s life took an unexpected turn when she was diagnosed with brain cancer her junior year. Yet, it was precisely when confronted with adversity that her courageous heart, giving spirit, and optimism radiated most brilliantly. Undeterred by the challenges that lay ahead, she approached her battle with resilience that spoke volumes about her invincible spirit. Rather than viewing her illness as a barrier, Gabby saw it as an opportunity to connect even more deeply with her occupational therapy patients in her studies, understanding firsthand the challenges they faced. Her battle became a shared journey of resilience and hope, transcending conventional boundaries between therapist and patient.
Even as the shadows lengthened, Gabby’s optimism remained steadfast. After a six-year struggle marked by both victories and setbacks in her battle against the diagnosis, Gabby made the brave decision to bring an end to her relationship with her cancer treatment. With grace, she opted to live life on her terms by surrounding herself with the things she loved most in her last months; holding her loved ones, laughing until her stomach hurt, traveling with her family, performing thoughtful actions, and inspiring others to radiate positivity.
Choosing to forego further treatment, her thoughts were not of herself but of gratitude for those who stood by her. She had the remarkable ability to make anyone feel special, bestowing upon them the light they needed to see the abundance within themselves. She truly gave others the ability to shine. Through her foundation, it is a dream to endure Gabrielle’s legacy of giving others assistance to shine as she so effortlessly did.
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