In last Sunday’s blog, I noted: “Linda is in the process of passing and will probably be in the arms of Jesus before the weekend is over.” That did not prove to be the case. Once again, she demonstrated the unpredictability that has defined our journey from the very beginning of her sickness, and passed... Continue Reading →

My thoughts today will be very brief. Linda is in the process of passing and will probably be in the arms of Jesus before the weekend is over. The picture accompanying today’s blog depicts my feelings. I am releasing the hand of the love of my life with the full assurance that I will see... Continue Reading →

As I sit by Linda’s bedside, directly in my sightline, just above her head a framed plaque, containing one of her life scriptures, reminds me of the essence of her being and the culmination of her hopes and dreams: Whom have I in heaven but you?          And earth has nothing I desire besides you.My flesh and... Continue Reading →

Throughout our journey into the “Long Goodbye,” trying to determine at any given time where Linda is in her struggle with Alzheimer’s could be compared to the complexities of hitting a moving target. Notes compiled from my journal illustrate this assertion: October 16, 2017 – Just before noon, Linda was transported from Erlanger North to what... Continue Reading →

Today’s blog was originally published under a different title on September 5, 2021. With a few minor changes, I am reprinting it in its entirety. My wife Linda is nearing the end of her long struggle with Alzheimer’s. Therefore, I feel compelled to share what I have learned with caregivers who are just beginning the... Continue Reading →

Sometimes, all of us face a challenge so great that the chasm between hope and hopelessness seems insurmountable -- with no way over, around, or through. The solution to this predicament is found in a simple principle: Two opposing cognitions cannot be held over time -- either hope or hopelessness must go. When I choose... Continue Reading →

Prior to Linda’s developing Alzheimer’s, I thought I was prepared to help others understand what happens between birth and death. However, after helplessly watching normal growth and development be reversed as she has slowly moved toward infancy, I am humbled by how little I know! At this point in our journey into the “Long Goodbye,”... Continue Reading →

When I prepare to celebrate the glorious resurrection of Christ, an unusual, conflicting memory often surfaces:  I was between eight and ten years old, Sunday School was over, and I, along with a group of boys, was preparing to march inside and be a part of “Big Church.” And, then it happened! With the sun... Continue Reading →

In last week’s blog, I noted that long-term caregivers to those who suffer from various forms of dementia constantly struggle with uncertainty: What will I face next? How can I meet the needs of my loved one without destroying myself in the process? Why do I sometimes feel as if I am riding an emotional... Continue Reading →

Long-term caregivers to those who suffer from various forms of dementia constantly struggle with uncertainty: What will I face next? How can I meet the needs of my loved one without destroying myself in the process? Why do I sometimes feel as if I am riding an emotional roller coaster? Is it normal to feel... Continue Reading →