INNISFAIL - A young Innisfail girl whose courageous fight against the disease that took her life two weeks ago has been recognized as an inspiration and a great comfort to those who knew and loved her.
Nine-year-old Brooke Theresa Judith Aubuchon died on Nov. 4 following a six-year battle with Batten disease, a neurological disorder.
A celebration of Aubuchon's life was held at the Innisfail Royal Canadian Legion auditorium on Nov. 20, with about 200 friends and family in attendance, including many young people.
“Brooke was stolen away from us,” her father Darcy Aubuchon said during the service. “I look around this place and see all of the lives that Brooke touched and I thank each and every one of you who cared for her in those dark years.
“Thank you all for the incredible support for Brooke and our family. Join us in cerebrating Brooke's life, short and powerful it may have been but everlasting and beautiful she will always be.”
Brooke's great grandmother Ruth Seibel recited several Bible verses.
“We will miss you Brooke,” Seibel said through tears.
Reverend Joanne Lee said Brooke “courageously battled against Batten disease” over the past six years.
“We gather to comfort and support one another in this time of loss, remembering especially Brooke's family and close friends,” said Lee. “We gather to commend to God with thanksgiving (for) the life of Brooke.
“Her love for her life and for her family was contagious. She has touched many people's lives by her courageous will to live and her peaceful presence was felt at all times.”
Brooke's brother Alexander passed away at age eight in 2011, also from Batten disease.
Darcy Aubuchon, father of Brooke
"I look around this place and see all of the lives that Brooke touched and I thank each and every one of you who cared for her in those dark years."
