Deborah Donnelly was born to immigrant parents. Education and reading were emphasized growing up. Her parents stressed that anything could be accomplished through commitment and working hard.

Deborah is the daughter of Holocaust survivor Hank Brodt (b. 1925). The book, Hank Brodt Holocaust Memoirs – A Candle and a Promise, was written at her father’s request to document his experiences during the darkest period in modern history. Deborah has a BSW and MSW, holds a LCSW and various credentials in trauma and substance abuse. She is married to Dan.