Symbolic Mural Honours the Life of Adult Day Program Participant in Ancaster

by chrismcgregor
Categories: Divisional News
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Valerie Davis’ memory lives on through butterflies and forget me not flowers. A huge wall-sized mural recently unveiled at The Salvation Army Adult Day Program at Meadowlands Community Church captures Valerie’s spirit and love of nature and just like the symbolic flowers, she is not forgotten.

When Valerie, a program participant at Meadowlands in Ancaster, passed away from COVID-19 in January, donations in her memory were used to create a symbolic mural to honour her memory, providing an uplifting and inspiring environment for clients and staff.

“My mom was the light of our family’s lives. She was warm and kind, fun and silly, and just an amazing person in general.  She could light up any room with her contagious laugh and beautiful smile,” said Corrine O’Brien, one of Valerie’s four daughters.

Local Hamilton artist Scott McDonald transformed the plain blank wall into one of beauty, brightening up the activity room for program participants. Valerie’s family got their first ever look at the mural during the unveiling ceremony.

When Valerie was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, the scary news and uncertainty eased when the family took a tour to learn more about the Adult Day Program, which provides a fun and supportive environment for participants living with dementia.

“We introduced her, and the staff broke into the song ‘Valerie,’ My mom laughed and joined right in.  She sang several songs on that tour and the staff seemed very impressed by her harmonizing ‘You Are My Sunshine.’ It was such a warm and welcoming environment we decided to give it a try,” Corrine said.

“She participated in games, art activities, singing and dancing and anything else they had planned for the day. It gave my family so much piece of mind to know that she was engaged, happy and safe. The staff always gave us such lovely feedback on her day, and it was clear that they genuinely cared for her.”

Every time someone walks into the activity room. Valerie’s spirit is still felt daily among program participants and staff, and she will be remembered through the beautiful mural, its flowers and butterflies.