LAUREN BETH ROSS
May 23, 1959 - October 19, 2018
Her name was Lauren but we always called her Laurie.
She exhibited the sweetest qualities: very affectionate,
always hugging and smiling…….but she was mentally challenged.
She loved to be among people and she was a great traveler. We took Laurie everywhere we went....but her development was slow. When it was time to attend school, she spent some time in a nursery school. She was part of a group and the teacher was ahead of her time……I'm referring to inclusion. After a year or so, she was ready to attend a class in Peekskill, NY. She loved being with children and benefited from the social interaction.
The ARC of Westchester was a wonderful place for her to grow and be with others. With the help of other parents, we advocated for a group home with residents that knew each other. It was “made in heaven”. The group was amiable and they all helped each other. Of course, the staff was outstanding. Laurie attended a vocational training center (at that time called “the workshop”).
She came home frequently, but eventually she was happy to stay at the Cortlandt House (from 1986).
Unfortunately, she had a very bad fall in 2014, and had to be transferred to another facility: Richmond Community Services. She became non-ambulatory and had to remain in a wheelchair.
I had wonderful help. Elaine, Ofelia and Alex would wheel her outside and all over the place. She was happy and always smiling.
Starting in August, she aspirated multiple times and had to be sent to the hospital. This situation continued and she was not strong enough to withstand the discomfort.
And succumbed to her last breath.