When Times are tough-When Isn't It With The Disease

I have been gone for a few days to Orlando to watch several of my grand kids dance in a National competition. I am always apprehensive when I return as to the reaction Mom will have. Even though I had my niece, my husband and my son visiting her, I was not sure what her response would be. When I arrived at her facility and said "hello, I missed you, Mom" she looked up at me and said "Sassy, you are" with a big smile! I am not sure what that meant, but she said it with a smile and she then said "I wish I could kiss you". How bad can that be and frankly it made me feel a little guilty.

It did bring to mind, however, how difficult living with Alzheimer's Disease and other dementias must be. That thought was like cold water on my face. So often the word's don't come, there is loss of the ability to move around, when and where they would like, and loss of the ability to find their treasures or even remembering what their treasures are. It makes my brief visits seem so small, so feeble. One hour a day seems, by comparison, small as compared to the other 23 hours in the day. Just as I was contemplating this and feeling even more guilty, Mom said "get those ladies to help me." It then dawned on me that she had trust and faith in the team members who care for her and her life was made better by their kindness and love. Even though I am the daughter, they are friends and many, if not all, treat her like a friend and that really was comforting. This thought helped me to lessen the gulit and and even feel relieved and happy, that when I am gone, I know she is in the hands of people who care. I hope you all can find a "friend for you loved one. What a blessing!!

May God keep you in the palm of Her hand.