I met Marie in her later stages of life at the Chelsea. I considered Marie one of my best friends. I could talk to her about anything and she would give me her blatant honest thoughts (which I respected). We had laughed together, cried together, and shared silence with one another while holding hands. When she shared what happened to her daughter, I understood why Marie and I had such a strong connection (I am the same age that her daughter was when she passed). Despite Marie being in the dementia unit, she was one of the most alert and intelligent residents. When I would do trivia, Marie was always answering every question first. We would sit and watch Wheel of Fortune and Family Feud every night when the TV was still in the dining room. Her late bedtime allowed for spending the most time with her during the night shift. She was hilarious. My favorite memories of Marie were when she told me “she’s as phony as a $3 bill” (don’t remember what we were talking about, but I now say that phrase). Another funny memory was the day I left my burrito unattended in the dining room and I came back to see her eating it. A day without Marie was a boring day when coming to the Chelsea. I had recently found out about her passing and felt sad but happy and relieved that she could finally be with her daughter again. I could tell how much that pained her in her waking life and I’m so glad they can meet again. Rest In Peace Marie, forever in my heart. Love, Bella
