Phoenixville remembers 9/11 and young cancer patient

As the Phoenixville community marked the 9/11 anniversary Sunday, their mourning became more personal.

Gabby Vogel’s parents took to Facebook that night to tell supporters their daughter had passed away after a months-long battle with a brain tumor. The community had been holding vigils, fundraisers and bake sales for the 5-year-old.

Thousands of people have voiced support since then on the family’s Facebook page they set up when Gabby became ill in May — their words now bury the family’s original announcement:

“Tonight at 8:15 Gabby lost her fight with the tumors in her brain,” the post read. “She put up a very good fight and has been so brave throughout this journey. Gabriella Martha Vogel 10-9-05 to 9-11-11. We will always love you and carry you in our hearts.”

Phoenixville Patch has covered the family’s journey as the 5-year-old received treatment and set goals for vacations before she became to ill.