Narberth Fire Loss of Life : Deborah DiMaio

Hi,

I am a Narberth resident and neighbor of the Thursday, April 20, 2023 Hampden Avenue's fire victim, who we now know is Deborah DiMaio.  As I update this story, my heart conitinues to break.  I am also a social worker wanting to generate and coordinate some funds to donate to the family and friends of our lost resident; right now, they have not returned my message, and I completely understand they may not, especially finding out Deborah was a bit distant from her family at times.  

With that being said, I have hesitated in sharing her info as I have come to know, though I am keenly aware of the expenses this may cause not only the owners of this house, but family/friends/neighbors/anyone who may have met Deborah, etc. I am now working closely with Dan Smith, Pastor of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in Narberth, as well as with joining his team to prepare and setup for Deborah’s Vigil this evening at 7:00pm in St. Margaret’s Church parking lot on N Narberth Ave.  There, you will be with our community as we all gathering together to process, grieve, and lean in together as Narberthians, hoping to also send warmth, prayers, and appreciation of life and life after death for our lost Narberthian.  I will be bringing QR codes to continue to share this fundraising effort, and joining with other volunteers and clergy from both Holy Trinity Lutheran Church as well St. Margaret’s Church, all of whom have been working to put our heads together in a way to do this, and “doing something rather than nothing.”  

More updates and info may be announced this evening; I will also be staying on top of updates as we continue through this grieving process.  The goal with where to give our donations will be further discussed, as her brother’s post and her dignity obituary suggested Providence Animal shelter (Deb loved dogs!). 

Let's bring ourselves together, knowing any little bit will help Deb’s family/friends/neighbors, and/or honoring whatever Deb would have wanted, as we begin upon our bereavement journey.  

Thank you for those of you who have graciously donated - I will be informing you all,and welcome suggestions, for what we do with this fundraiser.  

Wishing you a day full of life, and looking forward to our vigil this evening.