On Friday September 1st, 2017, Lakewood tragically lost one of its greatest influences to  breast cancer–Mrs. Anne Giffels. Beloved friend, mother, sister, mentor, Giffels touched many lives as a proud member of the Lakewood City Schools Community and Lakewood Athletics.

The battle was fought over the duration of nearly six years. Within the time frame, Giffels  is noted for weathering her hardest days with a smile and always being available for a helping hand. Ann Byczek, member of the Lakewood Athletic Boosters, commemerates Giffel’s selfless nature by asserting, “Her door was always open as she was compassionate about people and always there with two ears to listen.”

Over the years, students at Lakewood High participated in the fight against cancer. Over the course of two fundraisers, $3,300 was donated in honor of Giffels and other staff members with breast cancer. The annual Lakewood High ‘Pinkout Game’ promoted the sales of the infamous “Purple and Gold Down To The Bone” t-shirt–raising $2,800. An additional donation of $550 was raised from the Powder Puff games in late fall of 2015.

Giffel’s battle was never  fought alone. The support of her family, trusted friends, and the Lakewood Student Body ceased to waiver–following her each step of the way. Everyone will remember Mrs. Giffels as the individual with a devout passion for being involved with  Lakewood City schools.

“She truly believed  Lakewood is the best place to live and raise your kids,” states Ann Schwartz, President of the Lakewood Athletic Boosters. Schwartz worked closely with Giffels over the past years–raising money for Lakewood Athletics by running fundraisers and spending numerous Friday evenings helping at the concession stand.

Lakewood has lost one of its most valuable citizens, but gained an angel. Whether you knew her personally or did not, the passing of Anne Giffels is being mourned across the city. Simultaneously, we are grateful to have known this amazing individual who cherished moments with her friends, loved spending time with her family, and left an immense footprint on Lakewood forever.