Jackie Siegel, famously recognized from the 2012 documentary The Queen of Versailles, recently shared her emotional journey following the tragic loss of her husband and sister within just three days. In an interview with US Weekly, conducted on April 16, she opened up about her profound grief and reflections on their passing.
Tragic Losses in Quick Succession
Jackie Siegel’s husband, David Siegel, the founder of Westgate Resorts, passed away at the age of 89 on April 5 after a courageous battle with cancer. Just three days later, on April 8, her sister, Jessica Mallery, lost her life due to complications from substance abuse.
A Message from the Beyond
Describing both of them as her “guardian angels,” Siegel expressed a sense of solace in believing that they are together in the afterlife. She noted how she feels their presence guiding her in moments of decision-making.
“It comforts me to know that she was there to greet him. Now I know I have extra guardian angels and guidance. Sometimes I feel them, because when you get gut feelings, like, ‘Should I do this?’ or, ‘Should I turn left or should I turn right?’ It’s like, ‘I think I’ll turn right,’ and then you get goosebumps. So I have that special touch right now,” she shared.
Advocacy Through Organ Donation
In her exclusive conversation with US Weekly, Jackie Siegel revealed a significant decision she made following her sister’s death: she chose to donate Jessica’s organs. After Mallery, who died from ingesting cocaine laced with fentanyl, was found, Siegel acted quickly; within two days, seven of her sister’s vital organs were donated.
Expanding the Mission
Jackie is committed to broadening her advocacy efforts, transitioning from solely educating the public about drug abuse to also emphasizing the importance of organ donation. She found comfort in the fact that Jessica’s organs could save lives.
“We felt comfort in donating her organs. Within two days they donated seven of the critical organs that saved lives. That’s why I’m saying my life is expanding — it’s not just lives from education of fentanyl, but also to have people be aware about how important donating organs is,” Siegel noted.
Legacy of Hope
Siegel highlighted that not only were Jessica’s vital organs donated, but her skin was as well, potentially benefiting up to 60 individuals. She remarked that both her husband and sister continue to make a difference, albeit in distinct ways.
“She’s going to give someone eyesight with her eyes. We donated her skin for burn patients and skin cancer victims. She’s going to be able to help 60 people. She’s touching so many people’s lives. She’s still saving lives even after death. So was my husband, still, just both in different ways,” she explained.
Victoria’s Voice Foundation: A Commitment to Change
On April 9, Jackie Siegel’s nonprofit organization, Victoria’s Voice Foundation, issued a heartfelt statement on their Instagram page, pledging to amplify awareness of drug abuse in honor of Jessica Mallery.
“Our work at Victoria’s Voice remains more critical than ever, and in her memory, we will continue to raise awareness and advocate every single day until this form of grief is a distant memory in this country,” the statement emphasized.
Founded in 2019, Victoria’s Voice Foundation serves to honor the memory of Jackie and David Siegel’s daughter, Victoria, who tragically passed away from a drug overdose in 2016.