MaryEllen Hames-Dellacato was born on July 31, 1969. In 1992, she was diagnosed with lupus. She fought courageously against the debilitating disease over the next 10 years of her life- making countless trips to the hospital and braving numerous surgeries. She underwent two hip replacements, many catheter insertions, dual kidney failure, and a failed kidney transplant that resulted in a 45-day coma. MaryEllen was often in unrelenting pain, but somehow she never failed to put on a smile and bring joy to others. She actually continued her education, earning a Master’s degree in education and teaching. Following the completion of her degree, she began teaching junior-high school students. Unfortunately, after some time, she had to resign from the position due to more bouts of illnesses and hospitalizations from lupus. MaryEllen was such a prime motivator, planning outings and trips for friends and family. She coordinated golfing events, holiday celebrations, and weekend activities. MaryEllen only wanted to make others happy despite her worsening condition. On May 12, 2002, (Mother’s Day) after celebrating the first communion of a godchild, she passed away in her sleep. She left behind many loved ones mourning her death. The line for the wake continued for five hours without interruption, as everyone lined up outside the funeral home to pay tribute to their late sweetheart. > Lupus is a chronic, autoimmune disorder which causes inflammation of various parts of the body, especially the skin joints, blood or kidneys. It's not infectious, cancerous, or rare. > Want to know more? Walk With Us
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