Remaining Relevant

As Alzheimer’s continues its quest to consume Linda’s personality and eventually claim her life, in order to remain relevant, I remind myself she is on a journey she cannot control; and I can best serve her by directing from the sidelines. The whimsical look on her face in the picture accompanying today’s blog captures the... Continue Reading →

Acting or Reacting?

Prior to the opening of Legacy Village, complications from a previous surgery occurred, after I was given incorrect medication. When the long-awaited day, October 1, 2018, arrived, Linda was one of the first persons to be admitted. In the morning, our daughter Stephanie and I spent several hours helping her adjust to her new home.... Continue Reading →

Counting My Blessings

Several months ago, in a previous blog, I noted: “A caregiver to a dementia patient often finds the chasm between hope and hopelessness seemingly insurmountable -- with no way over, around, or through in sight!” For me, the solution to this predicament is found in a simple principle: Two opposing cognitions cannot be held over... Continue Reading →

Surviving Life’s Storms (part 3)

Early in my studies of human behavior, I was bothered because many of the secular theorists offered seemingly workable solutions regarding happiness, which appeared to often be missing among the followers of Christ. I soon discovered their theories fell apart when viewed in light of eternity. Conversely, the life of Abraham demonstrates God’s capacity to... Continue Reading →

Surviving Life’s Storms (part 2)

Even though I am accustomed to seeing daily changes in Linda’s condition, this week I was caught off guard by the range of her symptoms and behaviors: During last Sunday’s visit, we spent most of our time walking, frequently stopping for her to clean tables or rearrange pillows. She was very agitated on Monday, hurriedly... Continue Reading →

Surviving Life’s Storms (part 1)

As a long-term primary caregiver to my wonderful wife Linda, who suffers from Alzheimer’s, I have survived my share of storms. Therefore, I am often asked by those who are just beginning the journey how to prepare for victory and avoid defeat. My answer begins with a simplistic assertion: “Far more important than how many... Continue Reading →

Adapting to the Moment

When watching a loved one struggle with a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s, it is normal for them, as well as for us, to ask, “Why?” As would be expected, in the beginning Linda struggled more than I. After all, she was the one beginning an unplanned journey into the unknown, while I was, at that time,... Continue Reading →

Simplifying Purpose

In my previous blog, reflecting on the unpredictability of being a primary caregiver to an Alzheimer’s patient, I noted: “During the early years, I searched for useful materials to help me develop a plan of action and measure my progress. Even though I found some helpful sources, most were, as would be expected, painted with... Continue Reading →

Dwelling on the Good News

The picture accompanying today’s blog fails to reveal the details behind the story. Taken Friday night, as Linda sat with her baby doll waiting for bedtime, the obvious joy on her face depicts tranquility, which was very real at that moment! However, it doesn’t give a hint as to what transpired in the previous days;... Continue Reading →

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