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SARAH DOHERTY Obituary
Sarah is survived by her husband Kerith, her children Josh (Elsa), Abby (John), Hannah (Dariusz), and Kelly (Laurenne), grandchildren Ivan and Zeke. Her siblings, Mary, John, Paul, Margaret, twin sister Susan, Liz, and Billy. She is predeceased by her parents John and Jane and brother Steve.
Sarah was, and will always be, a truly phenomenal woman with the kindest heart, the brightest smile, and the most fierce and adventurous spirit. At age 13, she was hit by a drunk driver and lost her leg, but she refused to let external limitations and conventions define her. "I'm a person first, and then I'm a person with one leg."
On paper, measured by her achievements alone, Sarah led a truly impressive life. She was a competitive ski racer, and a member of the 1988 U.S. Paralympic ski team. She climbed Mt. Rainier, Mt. Kilimanjaro, and was the first amputee to summit Denali (Mt. McKinley) on one leg. She was a pediatric occupational therapist who loved working with kids.
In person, she was even more incredible. A loving mother, grandmother, wife, sister, and friend. An outdoor enthusiast who was happy on the water or the trails, amongst the waves or the trees. A teacher, an adventurer, an innovator, who valued creativity, independence, and inclusivity.
However, Sarah will be remembered most for the love and kindness that she exuded throughout her life. Sarah had an incredible ability to connect with anyone she met, on a deep level and she has touched so many lives. In every place she lived – the U.S., Canada, and New Zealand – she became a central figure in the community. People were drawn to Sarah; she was a social butterfly of the most beautiful colours.
The list of things Sarah couldn't do is short, and the list of things she didn't try is even shorter. Sarah was once quoted as saying "life has no romance without risk". She lived life to the fullest and wanted the same for everyone.
We could all aspire to be a bit more like Sarah, with her resilient spirit, her kind heart, and her unwillingness to let fear hold her back. We will all carry her memory forward with the stories we share.
A celebration of the extra-ordinary life of Sarah Doherty will be held in the summer, at a time and place to be announced.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for SARAH DOHERTY
7 Entries
K Klain
March 21, 2024
I met Sarah and Kerith at an abilities expo in San Mateo Ca.(US)
They were featuring their revolutionary designed sidestix crutches I had been wanting to check out for so long.
I have never met such a warm, gracious individual, one who took a real interest in others and their challenges as I learned more about how their innovative take on the forearm crutch could benefit me.
Both Sarah(and Kerith) helped me even after I finally received my sidestix(this was quite awhile ago with the old style rotating feet) over the phone at home.
It is with a sad heart I just learned of Sarah's passing now. From her blogs I ocassionally still read when I wandered on to sidestix's site, her musings on the beauty and joy of life always uplifted me.
She was one of adventure and a not just a can do spirit but a why not spirit. I grieve your loss, those who were her friends and family.
She leaves a legacy of shining light in all your hearts.
God speed Sarah, for adventures yet to come.
George Gibb
June 2, 2023
She was an inspiration for me . I always enjoyed our chance meetings walking our dogs on beach avenue in the Creek
Deborah Fox
February 11, 2023
I'm so terribly sorry to hear of Sarah's passing . I will always remember her with great fondness.
Deborah and Tim Fox.
Karen Lernowich
January 24, 2023
Rest In Peace, Sarah. It was always so nice to see you, I will miss you.
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Sean Smith
January 23, 2023
Sarah, though we never met, I became aware of your extraordinary life decades ago. You inspired me, and I thank you.
With condolences to your family,
Sean Smith
Debbie Koch
January 23, 2023
Sorry to hear of Sarah´s passing, thinking of you all at this sad and difficult time
Debbie Koch
Eric Sorensen
January 23, 2023
I didn't know Sarah but saw her numerous times here in Roberts Creek. A while back I saw Sarah at the IGA balancing her crutches along with a shopping cart. I went up and introduced myself to her and
offered to help her with her shopping. This is where
I met her bolt of energy, determination and smiling face. Sarah mentioned she only had a few things to get and would be all right. I said okay but still offered to help even though I didn't know her... I was struck by her kindness in reply.
My condolences go out to the Doherty family on the loss of a truly classy, determined lady.
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