On January 20th, 2024, shortly after celebrating her 91st birthday, my Nonna, Rosina Silvestre, peacefully passed away.
When I share the fact that my Nonna lived until the age of 91, the response is often some permutation of “she was blessed to have lived such a long life”; however, she had been absent from us for more than a decade before she took her last breath. This absence was brought about by Alzheimer's, a gradual and unrelenting disease that, while never diminished her vibrance, took its toll on the remarkable spirit she once possessed.
As I grapple with the process of mourning the loss of someone I held so dearly in my heart, I have chosen not to dwell on what I've lost but, instead, to focus on what I've gained – as I believe this is what my Nonna would have wanted. Upon receiving her diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease, my Nonna’s four children, who were once recipients of her care, later transitioned into the role of caregivers. My mother, in particular, took on much of this responsibility, utilizing the love and support she received from my Nonna as a source of inspiration to become her full-time caregiver. Observing the challenges associated with the decline of my Nonna’s health, I was able to discern the impact Alzheimer’s has on not only the individual facing the disease but also on those providing support.
Having now lost both of my grandparents to this disease, I empathize with the pain and heartache associated with witnessing the memory of someone you so dearly love slowly fade away.
My Nonna’s life serves as a powerful testament to my commitment to contributing to ongoing efforts aimed at finding a cure and raising awareness to support individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's disease.
While it deeply saddens me that she has left this earth, I find comfort in knowing that she courageously battled Alzheimer’s disease by facing the challenges it presented with remarkable strength. Her legacy is beyond the illness she battled, and her memory will forever live in our hearts. It is my hope that she is at peace and knows how much her love meant to those who had the privilege of knowing her. In remembrance of my Nonna and her long-fought battle with Alzheimer's disease, I have launched this non-profit fundraiser dedicated to raising awareness and funds for Alzheimer's research and support - All proceeds will go to the Alzheimers Society of Ontario.
Thank you for visiting my fundraising page supporting my Nonna’s legacy and the Alzheimer Society of Toronto. By donating on this page, you are helping to transform the lives of individuals and families living with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias.
