Elaine Carolyn Howard

Elaine was diagnosed in 2006 with Williams Syndrome and was the oldest person with this syndrome known to the Williams Syndrome Association.

From the 2006 October Heart to Heart:

For the first time ever, the WSA sold out its convention room block and had to add a second hotel for families coming to Richmond for the meetings. But the story of the week was not the excellent attendance, or fine speakers or the fun that the kids had at camp and on local excursions.

The real story of the convention unfolded on Saturday evening when 83 year old, Elaine (Lainey) Howard (above Rt.) was introduced to the attendees at the closing banquet. Elaine said Hello to everyone and then her younger sister Verna shared some highlights of life with Elaine.

The girls were raised on a farm, and it was always assumed that Elaine's "problems" were the result of an accident from which she suffered trauma to her head, when she was a child. Elaine was finally diagnosed in January 2006, when a young niece working in special education noticed the similarities between a young child with Williams syndrome in her class, and her Aunt Elaine. Verna happened to call the national office last fall just prior to a New England family gathering... and the rest is history. Elaine was treated like a movie star at the event with everyone clammoring to take photos, and she loved every minute.

To donate to the WSA in Elaine's memory, click here