A local family has made a $26,000 donation to Ocean City’s surf chair program in memory of Theresa “Terry” Pacera, who died in September after a battle with brain cancer.

According to a release, the beach at 52nd Street in Ocean City was Pacera’s “happy place,” and the surf chairs helped her enjoy her final months with friends and family. A memorial plaque that will be affixed to the surf chairs reads, “In loving memory of Theresa Pacera … ‘Where the waves meet the shore, your spirit lives on.’ ”

In lieu of flowers, the family had asked for donations to the city’s surf chair program.

Surf chairs make it possible for people with limited mobility to navigate the soft sand on the beach, and the free program is part of Ocean City’s ongoing efforts to improve accessibility in all parts of town. More information is available at ocnj.us/accessibility.

“I want to thank the Paceras and all the people who contributed to the memorial fund that made this donation possible,” Mayor Jay Gillian said. “It’s a great way to honor her memory.”