Dorothea Benton Frank, also known as Dottie, was a best-selling American novelist who wrote 20 books set in the Lowcountry of South Carolina. Her novels, such as Porch Lights and Queen Bee, captured the charm and beauty of the coastal region, as well as the stories and struggles of its people. She was a beloved figure who split her time between Sullivan’s Island, where she grew up, and the New York City area, where she lived with her husband and children. She also hosted events for her readers, promoted the Charleston area, and co-hosted The Post and Courier Book & Author Luncheon for years. She died on September 2, 2019, at the age of 67, after a brief but intense battle with a rare blood disorder. Here is what you need to know about Dorothea Benton Frank’s cause of death and how she touched the lives of many with her writing.
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What is Myelodysplastic Syndrome?
According to the Mayo Clinic, myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) is a group of disorders that affect the bone marrow and the production of blood cells. In MDS, the bone marrow makes abnormal or immature blood cells that do not function properly. This can lead to low levels of red blood cells, white blood cells, or platelets, causing symptoms such as anemia, infections, bleeding, or bruising. MDS can also progress to acute myeloid leukemia (AML), a type of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow.
The exact cause of MDS is unknown, but some factors that may increase the risk include exposure to certain chemicals, radiation, or chemotherapy, smoking, older age, or genetic mutations. MDS can be diagnosed by blood tests, bone marrow tests, or genetic tests. The treatment options depend on the type and severity of MDS, the patient’s age and overall health, and the goals of care. Some possible treatments include blood transfusions, growth factors, medications, chemotherapy, or stem cell transplant.
How Did Dorothea Benton Frank Die?
Dorothea Benton Frank was diagnosed with MDS in July 2019, according to her daughter Victoria Frank, who spoke to The Post and Courier. She said her mother had succumbed to the disease after a short but aggressive course that did not respond to treatment. She died in Manhattan of complications from MDS on September 2, 2019, just 10 days before her 68th birthday.
Victoria Frank said her mother had been feeling tired and weak for a while, but had attributed it to her busy schedule and traveling. She said her mother had been working on her next book, which was due to be published in 2020, and had been planning to attend the Southern Independent Booksellers Alliance trade show in Spartanburg, S.C., in September. She said her mother had also been looking forward to celebrating her 40th wedding anniversary with her husband Peter Frank in October.
Victoria Frank said her mother’s death was a shock to the family and the literary community, as she had kept her illness private and had hoped to recover. She said her mother was a fighter who never gave up, and who loved her family, friends, and fans dearly. She said her mother’s legacy would live on through her books, which brought joy and inspiration to millions of readers.
How Did Dorothea Benton Frank’s Fans React?
Dorothea Benton Frank’s fans were devastated by the news of her death, and many of them expressed their condolences and tributes on social media. They praised her for her humor, warmth, and generosity, and thanked her for her stories that transported them to the Lowcountry and made them feel like part of her family. They also shared their favorite memories of meeting her at book signings, events, or online, and how she made them laugh, cry, or think. They said they would miss her dearly, and that they would cherish her books forever.
Some of the messages from her fans are:
- “I am so saddened to hear of the passing of Dorothea Benton Frank. She was one of my favorite authors and I have read all of her books. She made me fall in love with the Lowcountry and I felt like I knew her characters personally. She was a wonderful storyteller and a lovely person. My thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends. Rest in peace, Dottie. You will be missed.”
- “Dorothea Benton Frank was more than an author to me. She was a friend. I had the privilege of meeting her several times and she was always so kind, gracious, and funny. She made me feel like I mattered and that she cared about me. She also inspired me to write my own stories and to pursue my dreams. She was a role model and a mentor to me. I am heartbroken by her loss, but I am grateful for the gift of her books. They will always be a part of me.”
- “I can’t believe Dorothea Benton Frank is gone. She was such a bright light in this world. Her books were my escape, my comfort, and my joy. They made me laugh out loud, cry happy tears, and feel like I was home. She had a way with words that touched my soul. She was a generous and compassionate woman who supported many causes and charities. She was a legend and a treasure. I will miss her terribly, but I will always remember her fondly.”
