In May of 1978, Debbie Sorensen and her husband met Kenny and Marilynne Sailors in Gakona, Alaska. Over the decades, she has benefitted from her connection with the Sailors, who inspired her to reach out to those around her.

Debbie and her husband raised two sons who played high school basketball. She enjoys following six grandchildren and their classmates on the hardwood. Debbie follows Kenny's example and makes a point to encourage college athletes at her hometown college.