(The post below was written on May 14, 2020. My mom passed on April 4, 2020.) I went to my parents’ house today to visit my dad and help out with a few things. While I was on my way, my sister texted me and asked if I could look for any of our Barbie … Continue reading A Final Love Note
Tag: love
“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
To Both Love and Grieve Means to Live a Full Life
I’ve been thinking a lot about death lately. Death and grief and the impending doom of losing my mom. (Yeah, I know. I’m super fun these days.) I’ve also been thinking a lot about how much my mom’s Alzheimer’s has affected me; how much it has changed me. I often ask myself why my mom’s … Continue reading To Both Love and Grieve Means to Live a Full Life
Alzheimer’s Can’t Take Away Your Love
With this ring... This is my mom’s wedding ring. I saw it sitting on her dresser the last time I went home and it stopped me in my tracks. She hasn’t been able to wear it in years. She would play with it, taking it on and off her finger, and my dad was afraid … Continue reading Alzheimer’s Can’t Take Away Your Love
My Mom Knows Me
When I tell someone my mom has Alzheimer’s, the first thing they usually ask is, “Does she know who you are?” There was a time when I could confidently answer, “Yes, she does.” People always seemed so relieved to hear that. “Oh, that’s good!” While it was good that my mom still knew who I … Continue reading My Mom Knows Me
I Know the Pain of Alzheimer’s, But I Also Know the Love
They say to write what you know. I know the pain of losing a parent to Alzheimer’s. I know the pain of grieving the loss of someone you love before they even die. I know the pain of losing more and more of your mom every day. I know the pain of trying to learn … Continue reading I Know the Pain of Alzheimer’s, But I Also Know the Love
The Guilt Will Bury You Alive, If You Let It
Guilt. Everyone feels it. Everyone talks about it. Everyone tries their best to avoid it by doing the right thing. But, no one ever tells you that there really is no way around it. Sometimes, no matter how many good things you do, you still find something to feel guilty about. This is especially true … Continue reading The Guilt Will Bury You Alive, If You Let It
The Power of Love
The following is a guest post written and submitted by Jeannine O'Neil. One day, I was listening to music on YouTube and Lady Gaga’s song “The Cure” popped up. I stopped and listened to the words. “If I can't find the cure, I'll I'll fix you with my love No matter what you … Continue reading The Power of Love