I just got word that Maggie Borger died peacefully yesterday afternoon at 5:18 in her own bed surrounded by her family. Maggie was one of the original COPD Information Line volunteers, a member of Coaches Corner and was on the board of Efforts and a member of COPD Alert and COPD International. Even though she was small in stature, she was a huge voice for those with COPD.
Maggie was an inspiration for me like she was for so many others. She loved life and those who were lucky enough to be a part of her world. Always the first to reach out to others in need, Maggie in the last ten years made a true impact in the world of COPD that will benefit generations to come. Because of her efforts, Maggie helped promote COPD awareness, and counseled new and veteran patients alike offering encouragement and knowledge, but above all allowing them the gift of knowing they were not alone.
I was proud to call Maggie a friend. We shared a love of dogs, and when one our our dogs became ill or passed away, Maggie would reach out. I came to love the pictures she would send of her dog Elwood, who would actually wake her if her oxygen hose came out during the night. Elwood also became Maggie’s exercise companion.
I have said goodbye to so many who have lived with this dreaded disease, and Maggie’s death is especially painful. I will miss knowing that she is with us, but I firmly believe that she will continue to live on in our hearts and in the vital work we have ahead of us. Maggie was a true hero in every sense of the word, and to my mind, heroes never leave us and will always be remembered.
Rest well my dear friend with love and thanks for all you gave to so many. On behalf of the staff and volunteers of the COPD Foundation we extend our thoughts and prayers to Maggie's husband Pete and her loving family