The carer who admitted the manslaughter of Adelaide cerebral palsy sufferer Ann Marie Smith has offered a tearful apology, telling a court she takes responsibility for her actions.
Rosa Maria Maione faced the South Australian Supreme Court on Thursday for ongoing sentencing submissions after previously entering her guilty plea.
"I'm so sorry that my actions have caused so much distress," Maione said in a short statement.
"I pray with all my heart that Annie is in heaven. I ask for Annie's forgiveness, knowing that nothing I say can ever bring her back.
"I will bear this guilt for the rest of my life."
Ms Smith passed away in hospital in April 2020 from septic shock, multiple organ failure, severe pressure sores and malnourishment.
The 54-year-old had been found to be living in squalid conditions in her own home, largely confined to a cane chair, while under the care of the National Disability Insurance Scheme.
In the period leading up to the death, Maione had worked as her carer.
At an earlier court hearing, Ms Smith's family said there was some relief in Maione's admissions.
"She's finally stood up to be counted. But it's too late," the victim's uncle Glenn Smith said.
Mr Smith said he hoped his niece, who had battled hard against her disability all her life, would be remembered as the bright and cheery person she was.
"She never ever bemoaned her situation. She never complained once," he said.
Justice Anne Bampton revoked Maione's bail on Thursday. The 69-year-old will be sentenced next week.
Australian Associated Press
