Father Maurice Maronite Church Liefde and Vrede May 2013
Bernadette Munzer has shared her journey of intense grief with so many bereaved parents whom I have distributed her book to.She has reached out and touched so many lives by her compulsion to write and turn her loss of her two beautiful, young daughters, Zeina and Michelle, into therapy for others similarly afflicted with tragedy. This can only be attributed to her faith. She has shown the love of God to other’s and God’s reflection is revealed through her.
Danielle Khoury April 2013
For my High School Life Orientation class, we were given a brief to write an article about a strong and inspirational woman. Now, most 15 year old girls had Britney Spears or Madonna at the top of their list, but one person sprung to my mind so quickly and powerfully. I recalled the front cover with a rainbow arching across the top and two beautiful, dark-haired girls smiling cheerfully beneath it. As I arrived home that day, I scanned our bookshelf and found the small paperback; its cursive title gently reading 'Reach out and Touch -by Bernadette Munzer' . As a child, I had always admired the book for its beautiful cover and vaguely knew the tragic story that lay within. Now was the first time that I began to read it. As the words transported me to a time of deep, deep sadness, I could not put the book down. Aunty Bernie's lovingly written story was remarkable, and the strength that radiated from her words was incredible to me. As quickly as the words were read, my own began to write the article telling Aunty Bernie's story and justifying her as an unbelievably strong and inspirational woman. I know now that the clear assertion that led me to write about Aunty Bern was from God. Her immense faith and grounding in the church is such an admirable characteristic of hers. Seven years have passed since I wrote that article, but if someone were to ask me about a woman whom I find to be strong and inspirational, Aunty Bernie is still at the top of my list.
Fiona May 2006
Mrs Munzer, or may I call you Bernie; your book touched me so deeply and I found myself with tears pouring down my face on the Tube on the way to work in London. Your book is a testament to your love for your beautiful daughters and I cannot begin to imagine how hard it must have been for you to write it. I found the many personal thoughts and references so poignant, particularly when talking about Mark and Fardy. It was crippling to read, so goodness only knows what it must have been like writing it. Your book is extraordinary and I bow down to your strength and resilience in writing the book. I am sure your book has and will be of a great help to anyone that has lost a family member, not to mention parents who have lost children. I know from reading your book, that none of this was easy for you and it took you and your family to places you never dreamt you would have to go. You are an extraordinary women with an exceptional family and I salute you. With much love and deep affection.
Sharon van Blerk 28 October 2016
I have read your book several times and they will never be forgotten. I only saw today that you actually have a beautiful page in their memory. I was in matric 1995. I became a paramedic and I met way to many families affected by tragedy. And those that I got to know I would recommend your book. I hope today above all else you found peace in their beautiful memories
Manuela Duarte 25 January 2016
Dear Bernadette From the year 2008 I have purchased over 15 copies of this book from Pauline’s bookshop. I have given to friends who have lost children. I was originally from the West Rand, my 2 children were born at Flora Clinic. Reading this book, inspired me to reach out to others. I am Catholic too. What a book, is all I can say.