Teri Russo, who championed causes for the developmentally challenged, particularly those with Down Syndrome, for whom she provided food, shelter and clothing, and whose “rights as children of God” she fought for tirelessly, died April 8 in Staten Island University Hospital. She was 82. 

Ms. Russo dedicated her life to disabled, forgotten children and throughout her journey was an unstoppable force in her quest to obtain proper services and funding for children and adults with special needs. Her motto was to trust in God, to live life to the fullest with love in your heart and a smile on your face and to enjoy a frequent chuckle — and remember to never hurt anyone.