Category Archives: Alzheimer’s Love Story
The Routine of Tiny Perfect Things
I know that the novel and movie “The Notebook” contains elements similar to my experience with Cindy. A man refers to a notebook to remind a woman with dementia of their shared past and love. The symphonic slideshow I rehearse … Continue reading
Ten Years After
This was a morning when Cindy’s underpad needed to be changed at the start of her day. As is the routine for when this happens I pick Cindy up in my arms and sit down in the neighboring chair with … Continue reading
All in the Eyes
After feeding the cats I return to our “bedroom” to start Cindy’s day. If her eyes are closed, droopy or alert I go about my normal routine. On this day her eyes are fixed on the ceiling in a vacant … Continue reading
Mind over Matter
“Mind over matter.” That declaration by Cindy echoed in my mind as I pushed her in the stroller to an outdoor wedding, 3.5 miles from our home. We had planned to jog to this event for months. Lindy the bride … Continue reading
Best Laid Plans
We were looking to carry on a new tradition this year on the date of our anniversary, September 19. Last year on that date I took Cindy to the top of Dennis Hill in the adult stroller. Our daughter Charissa … Continue reading
Finally Finished!
I finished orchestrating Journey, the fifth and final movement of the American Discovery symphony. As the title implies this movement for a full orchestra provides an overview of the total American Discovery experience. It also is the most touching of … Continue reading
My Caregiver Dilemma
As I gave Cindy her first hug of the day, claiming instead she was giving me a hug, I asked her the usual question: “Did you sleep OK.” Back when Cindy could answer she always said “yes” even though I … Continue reading
Modes of Affection
As a citizen from the land of steady habits, I call up the same type of music for each day of the week while I do the early morning chores. On Saturdays I call for the children’s music we played … Continue reading
Empathy and Resurrection
After changing Cindy and going through her physical therapy I put her “dancing shoes” on and swing her legs out of the bed. Her “dancing shoes” are a pair of sandals with rubber soles gripping the floor. Her sandals are … Continue reading
Kindness Wednesday
This week begins Kindness Wednesday, the third in a series that so far includes Beautiful Monday and Cultural Tuesday. These are based on the movements of the American Discovery symphony. The goal of this series is to provide a platform … Continue reading