Cyna Brandt, a long time Island resident, died peacefully on July 17, just three days before her 61st birthday. She had been struggling with the effects of a brain seizure suffered in November 2016. She is survived by her brother Mark, her nephew Michael, and two great-nephews.

Cyna moved to Vashon in 1994 and quickly became involved in Drama Dock, designing and making costumes for several productions. She also created squares for the Community Quilt for several years. For many years she was the public face of Vashon Youth and Family Services, where she worked as the receptionist. After graduating from Pacific Lutheran University with a degree in communication, she worked for the Arthritis Foundation, where she was the editor of the company magazine. In an article she wrote for the Beachcomber she described how she had been diagnosed with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis at the age of 18 months, at the time the youngest person to be diagnosed with the disease.

Her parents insisted that she attend regular classes despite her physical challenges and, as a result, Cyna was always fiercely independent. She struggled with the loss of her independence after the seizure left her blind. Determined to return to Vashon to be close to her many friends, she spent her final time at the Vashon Community Care center, receiving outstanding care from the staff there.

A celebration of her life will be held at VCC on Saturday, September 15th from 1 to 4 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations to VYFS will be greatly appreciated.