Finding Strength in Community: The Gidel Family’s Tribute to Linda
Grief and Giving
Linda Lombardo Gidel was a woman of immense warmth, kindness, and generosity. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, she touched countless lives with her compassion and selflessness. After she passed away from cholangiocarcinoma in April 2024, her family wanted to honor her spirit in a way that truly reflected her values. In doing so, they found strength in community and a sense of purpose in supporting CCF’s mission.
Tribute giving—donating in memory of someone special—provides a meaningful way to celebrate a life while supporting a cause that makes a difference. For the Gidel family, tribute giving to the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation (CCF) became a powerful way to transform their loss into a tangible way to make a difference.
Since connecting with CCF in April 2024, the Gidel family has raised over $26,800 in Linda’s memory. Their tribute fundraising effort not only honors Linda’s life but also fuels critical research and support for other families navigating a cholangiocarcinoma diagnosis.
“We deeply appreciate the work that CCF does to support families like ours and to honor the memory of loved ones lost to cholangiocarcinoma. Our family is honored to share Linda’s story,” the Gidel family shared.
Through tribute giving, the Gidels have not only contributed to advancing research but have also found a place of belonging within the CCF community. They have participated in webinars, attended support groups, and plan to join the CCF Annual Conference in April 2025, where they will meet others who understand their journey.
Turning Grief Into Action
“For us, giving to CCF is a way to turn our grief into action. By supporting research and raising awareness, we hope to help others battling this disease and honor Linda’s incredible spirit.”
Tribute giving offers a way to channel grief into something tangible, something that keeps a loved one’s memory alive while making a real difference in the lives of others. For many families, it is a way to ensure that their loved one’s story continues to be told and that their mission to advance research will contribute to future breakthroughs.
Strength in Community, Hope in Research
The Gidel family’s journey is a testament to the power of community. By sharing Linda’s story and supporting CCF, they have found comfort in knowing they are not alone. They have joined a network of families, patients, researchers, and advocates who are all working toward the same goal—finding a cure and improving the quality of life for those affected by cholangiocarcinoma.
Tribute giving is more than just a donation; it is a statement of love, remembrance, and hope. It strengthens the bonds of community, bringing people together in shared purpose and resilience.
If you or someone you love has been affected by cholangiocarcinoma, consider honoring their memory through a tribute gift. Like the Gidel family, you may find that giving provides a supportive community and a meaningful way to keep your loved one’s spirit alive.
To learn more about tribute giving or to make a donation in memory of a loved one, visit the Get Involved page.