It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Cynthia Anne Ellen Naomi McDonald-Garbowski of Kelowna and Oyama, B.C. on Aug. 21, 2013 at the age of 49 after a very courageous and difficult battle with Leukemia. She was the loving Mother of Danika and Jamie, Daughter of Madge and Bruce McDonald, Sister of Kerri (Rob) Onken, Brenda (Kevin) Mahoney and David McDonald, and former wife of Vance Garbowski. Cynthia (Cyndy to her family and friends) will be sorely missed by her family and numerous friends. Cyndy will be forever in our hearts, remembered for her infectious smile, laughing eyes and positive attitude. In her own encouraging words, Cyndy posted the following on her Facebook May 15, 2013 - "I finally figured it out. It's not about me and fairness or what I did to deserve this; it's about all of you and what I can teach you through my journey. Maybe it isn't me who needs to learn a lesson, but me who can help each of you learn a lesson. That's what I can learn - that through my journey, each of you can learn something of your own. I like that thought... 'if I can teach each of you something, then perhaps my experience is worthwhile.'" The Garbowski family will be hosting a "Celebration of Life" on what would have been Cynthia's 50th Birthday, September 28, 2013. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Cynthia's name to The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Canada, Suite 310-1682 7th Ave W, Vancouver, BC V6J 4S6 http://www.llscanada.org/ Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.springfieldfuneralhome.com 250-860-7077