In the heart of Tierrasanta, a man battling Parkinson’s disease, Mark Borza, continues to carry out a deeply personal tradition to honor his daughter’s memory and pay tribute to the victims of the 9/11 terror attacks. His daughter, Deora Bodley, tragically lost her life at the young age of 20 on United Flight 93, one of the planes hijacked during the infamous events of September 11, 2001. The annual ceremony takes place at Mission San Diego de Alcalá, where Borza and a close-knit group of family and friends gather to light 40 candles, symbolizing each victim who perished on that fateful flight.
Grief and mourning are emotions that never truly fade, as expressed by Borza himself. Despite the passage of time, the pain of loss remains a constant companion. However, through his annual candlelighting ceremony, Borza finds a way to navigate through his grief and ensure that his daughter and all the individuals who lost their lives on that tragic day are remembered and honored. The tradition holds immense significance for Borza, serving as a poignant reminder of the lives lost and the importance of remembrance.
Borza’s journey of remembrance began in 2003 when ABC 10News first shared his story following the devastating loss of his daughter. Since then, the annual candle ceremony has evolved into a heartfelt tribute, with additional events such as benefit concerts and fundraisers dedicated to honoring Bodley’s memory. For Borza, ensuring that his daughter is not forgotten is a mission close to his heart, a way to preserve her legacy and the legacies of all who perished on 9/11.
The passage of time has brought its own set of challenges for Borza, especially with his Parkinson’s diagnosis in 2016. The physical toll of the disease, with its impact on his voice and mobility, has made each year’s ceremony more demanding. Despite the hurdles he faces, Borza’s determination to continue the tradition remains unwavering. His commitment to honoring the memories of the victims reflects a deep sense of duty and a desire to uphold the promise of “we will not forget.”
As his physical strength wanes, Borza’s resolve only grows stronger. The annual candlelighting ceremony is not just a ritual for him; it is a testament to his enduring love for his daughter and his unwavering dedication to preserving the memory of those lost on 9/11. Borza’s determination to continue the tribute, even in the face of physical challenges, underscores the power of remembrance and the resilience of the human spirit.
Looking ahead, Borza’s commitment to carrying on the tradition remains steadfast. His declaration to continue the annual candle ceremony “forever” speaks volumes about his dedication and the depth of his love for his daughter and all those who perished on that tragic day. As long as he has breath in his body, Borza intends to ensure that the memories of the victims live on, shining brightly in the flickering flames of each candle lit in their honor.
In a world that often rushes past, forgetting the past in the relentless march of time, Borza’s annual tribute stands as a beacon of remembrance and a testament to the enduring power of love and memory. Through his actions, he reminds us all of the importance of honoring the past, cherishing the memories of those we have lost, and finding strength in the bonds that connect us across time and space. Borza’s journey is a poignant reminder that in the face of tragedy, love and remembrance can be guiding lights, illuminating the path forward and keeping alive the flames of memory and hope.
Takeaways:
- The power of remembrance and honoring the memories of loved ones lost to tragedy.
- The resilience and determination of individuals in the face of physical and emotional challenges.
- The importance of rituals and traditions in preserving legacies and fostering healing.
- The enduring impact of collective tributes in keeping memories alive and fostering community support.
Read more on 10news.com