This team is in honor of my mother Lorraine Silvernail. She passed away on January 18, 2015.

I am so grateful that I was allowed to be with Mom when she died. She was peaceful and unafraid. She died about 5 minutes after receiving Last Rites and you could almost feel how much peace that brought her.

When she died I thought "well she finally lost her battle with Alzheimers"...but the truth is she won her battle with Alzheimers.

Alzheimer's never took control over the kindness and gentleness that was at the core of who Mom was. It never took away her love for God, family, people and animals. It never took away her dignity thanks to the many people who took care of her at the Genesee County and NYS Veterans Nursing Homes.

Her faith was strong and steady until her final day. Even though she seemed not to know who I was for the last few years, there were still small signs of Mom that came through her eyes and especially her smile. I know the next time I see Mom she will know me and all those she loved.

Mom did not lose her battle with Alzheimers - she WON!!

It is so important to continue to try and find a cure for this cruel disease and that is why Rainy's Day will continue to Walk to End Alzheimers. The WNY Alzheimer's chapter was and is a great resource in learning how to deal with someone with Alzheimers. 

Please just remember not to get upset with a friend or relative with Alzheimers. They can't help how they are functioning and we need to "Go where they are because they can not come to where we are."