(The post below was written on February 7, 2020. My mom passed on April 4, 2020.) I’ve been living in a fog of grief. Every day is hazier than the day before. I have been feeling so isolated, so disconnected from the rest of the world. Everyone is out there living life, going places, doing … Continue reading Living in a Fog of Grief
Tag: dementia caregiver
Alzheimer’s Care Through A Child’s Eyes
(The post below was written on February 4, 2020. My mom passed on April 4, 2020.) My 3 1/2-year-old niece took this photo last week. She picked up my phone and started pretending to take pictures, or at least I thought she was pretending because the screen was locked. It wasn’t until later that I … Continue reading Alzheimer’s Care Through A Child’s Eyes
I’m Exactly Where I’m Supposed to Be
(The post below was written on January 28, 2020. My mom passed on April 4, 2020.) I just turned 35 years old. I haven’t had a real job in almost seven years. Not because I’m a stay-at-home mom. Not because I’m having babies and raising children. Not because I’m disabled or sick or unable to … Continue reading I’m Exactly Where I’m Supposed to Be
Celebrating Mom’s Last Birthday
(The post below was written on January 23, 2020, the day before what would be my mom’s last birthday. My mom passed on April 4, 2020.) I went to the grocery store earlier today to get a cake, candles, balloons, and a card for my mom’s birthday tomorrow. I selected everything carefully. I even had … Continue reading Celebrating Mom’s Last Birthday
Changes, Chaos, and Grief
(The post below was written on January 20, 2020. My mom passed on April 4, 2020.) There has been a lot of change in the last two weeks or so. In short, we are beginning to prepare for the end. Then again, aren’t we always? It seemed as though my mom was plateauing for a … Continue reading Changes, Chaos, and Grief
The Beginning of the Final Decline
(The post below was written on January 13, 2020. My mom passed on April 4, 2020.) Friday was a rough day. My mom’s regular aide was out all week taking care of her own mom. The agency failed to send a replacement on Tuesday and Wednesday, so my dad was on his own. Since I … Continue reading The Beginning of the Final Decline
The First Day Without Her
I have been meaning to update my blog for a while now. If you follow me on social media, then you already know, but I wanted to give an update for those who don’t. My mom passed away about three months ago, on April 4, 2020, after a ten-year battle with Alzheimer’s. She had been … Continue reading The First Day Without Her
“Limbo” by Sandy Patton
Limbo Written by Sandy Patton and shared with permission Standing in her doorway, I feel the familiar angst. I clear my throat, swallowing hard against the flood of tears that, on most days, threatens to escape my eyes, now awash in sadness, exhaustion, hopelessness. I’ve tried hard to brighten Mom’s small room with … Continue reading “Limbo” by Sandy Patton
Interview with Dr. Regina Koepp of the Caring for Aging Parents Show
I had the honor and privilege of being interviewed by Dr. Regina Koepp yesterday for the Caring for Aging Parents Show. In the interview, we talk about the road to my mom’s diagnosis, my struggle as a 25-year-old to accept her diagnosis, the importance of sharing your story, what I’ve learned over the last ten … Continue reading Interview with Dr. Regina Koepp of the Caring for Aging Parents Show
Someday You’re Going to Miss What Seems Hard Today
You’re going to miss this someday. Whatever you’re going through right now. Whatever your biggest challenge is. The thing that drives you absolutely crazy and frustrates you to your core. You’re going to miss it someday. It seems like just yesterday I was driving my mom to the hairdresser or out to go shopping. She … Continue reading Someday You’re Going to Miss What Seems Hard Today
