In the past couple of months, I've learned about so-and-so's mom, dad, or relative being diagnosed with Alzheimer's too many times. I feel like I have heard one sad story a week, however I'm sure it has been less than that. But still... ugh! The current statistic is that someone in the United States will develop Alzheimer's disease every 66 seconds. Say what? Yes, it is the shocking truth we face today.

When I first set up my website, I intended to write more about my personal journey with this dreadful disease. However, I have not really allowed myself to spill it out there. I see that look on someone's face when they are telling me a little bit about their experiences so far with a loved one who has been diagnosed with Alzheimer's. It's a look that I can surely spot, because I know. I know what's behind the words. I'm going to try to be a bit more personal and share my stories, because I know that sometimes hearing another person's story can make a person feel a bit of comfort and connection that we are not alone in this.

I love to research the latest news on the Alzheimer's front. I love to gather all the information, sort it out, and present it in summary form. I like to help point people in the right direction so they can get some good, local support and advice. But what I've realized so far is that it's not easy to share much of my personal pain. Well it's a new year, and a new chapter, so- to-speak. I'm going to try putting myself out there more often. I will work on telling my story, the good, the bad, and ugly while using humor when appropriate. After all, laughter is the best medicine!

Pretty much everything about Alzheimer's 'bites'. There's just no politically correct way for me to say it. It sucks. When I talk to someone in person about a loved one with Alzheimer's, it can be heartwarming and heartbreaking all at the same time. And yes, that is possible. When I hear about a new diagnosis and the struggles the family goes through to sort through everything, it breaks my heart. I know how difficult the beginning can be with so much information to sort out. That's why I have written some posts about planning ahead that you can find under the Resources tab on this website.

But... what I really want to say to you is that 'time' is the best thing you can give your loved one. Spend time together. Listen to their stories. Work on puzzles together. Listen to music. Take a drive and talk about memories. These are all things that I remember doing with my mom early on after her diagnosis. She loved to do puzzles. She loved to drive past her old neighborhood and school, talking about fun memories. She loved to go get some ice cream or walk around in a store. I'm glad for these times, but sad for the loss of them.

In my effort to add some humor to my personal stories, I will admit that at times we do get to have a laugh and share a smile. When she walks back into a room, forgetting we've been visiting and sees me sitting there... her happy face and excitement that I'm there allows for smiles and laughs. When she smiles watching videos of her great-grandchildren doing silly things, it warms my heart. When she happily accepts and eats the cookies we've brought, the smile says it all. Then there was the time she walked over and hugged a complete stranger, probably thinking he was someone else. It broke my heart that the person receiving the hug didn't realize how much it meant to her and was a bit taken aback, but it warmed my heart to see how happy she was to give that hug! She's even had moments where she can dance to music, and it cracks me up! Yes, laughter is good medicine.

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Alzheimer's Association

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