Cynthia Krimbill died unexpectedly during our senior year of high school (1980). Months before her death, she began having problems with her motor skills and her eyesight began failing. After her death, an autopsy confirmed that she had Leigh’s disease, a rare neurometabolic disorder that affects the central nervous system. The disease usually affects infants, but, in rare cases, teenagers and adults as well.
In addition to the physical impact of the disease, it also affected the part of her brain responsible for emotional development and social skills. During her life, she suffered from verbal and physical abuse by her peers and was the target of many bullies simply because she was “different.”
Her strength was that she never let the abuse and bullying discourage her or make her feel bad about herself. She always longed for friendship and for the few courageous people who befriended her, her family is thankful.
Cynthia was a gift to our family and she is greatly missed. She taught us to love unconditionally, forgive daily, and the importance of telling others you love them every day.
I remember Cindy...and I remember her death and funeral in our senior year. She was my "secret Pal" in Social and Family living class....and the notes and small gifts she gave to me were sweet and dear. She did teach all of us some profound lessons about kindness and caring for one another.
Robin Stengrim
Gone but not forgotten...I didn't need to see your name, Cindy, to think of you.
You hold a special place in my heart. :) God bless your family. with love, Robin
Melissa Peterson
Cynthia Krimbill died unexpectedly during our senior year of high school (1980). Months before her death, she began having problems with her motor skills and her eyesight began failing. After her death, an autopsy confirmed that she had Leigh’s disease, a rare neurometabolic disorder that affects the central nervous system. The disease usually affects infants, but, in rare cases, teenagers and adults as well.
In addition to the physical impact of the disease, it also affected the part of her brain responsible for emotional development and social skills. During her life, she suffered from verbal and physical abuse by her peers and was the target of many bullies simply because she was “different.”
Her strength was that she never let the abuse and bullying discourage her or make her feel bad about herself. She always longed for friendship and for the few courageous people who befriended her, her family is thankful.
Cynthia was a gift to our family and she is greatly missed. She taught us to love unconditionally, forgive daily, and the importance of telling others you love them every day.
Karen Olson (DeBaun)
I remember Cindy...and I remember her death and funeral in our senior year. She was my "secret Pal" in Social and Family living class....and the notes and small gifts she gave to me were sweet and dear. She did teach all of us some profound lessons about kindness and caring for one another.
Karen DeBaun