Mom & Me A Caregiving Memoir
Helen and Me: A Story of Dementia & the Power of God’s Love, is written from both the caregiver’s perspective and the patient’s.
“She’s still there. She’s still the same person: holding on tight to her abilities and dignity.”
This memoir embraces Helen’s personal history from the onset of Alzheimer’s Dementia Disease to the present day. The author presents Helen’s journey through the lens of her personal knowledge as her daughter-in-law and caregiver. The book speaks of the challenges, day-to-day needs and the progression of dementia disease. It is an account of joy and sadness, trauma and triumph, peace and anxiety: a story of familial love, the exhaustion of caregiving, denial and mending misunderstandings. It’s high-stakes decisions, stressful days, and the pleasure of a job done as well as you can.
The story is told from the caregiver’s perspective, with snippets from the patient.
“It is my privilege and honor to present this memoir to you. I hope you will be encouraged and strengthened in many ways. Remember: There is still a person inside, dementia is always cruel but our loved ones are not empty. They’re still there!”
Sincerely, Deborah Lyn.
Preface
Today my heart said, “I’m ready to write this; I need to share with others.”
Near the end of my time with Mom, I was inspired to start a journal recounting many of our times together. I may add some stories from painting activities with memory impaired seniors. I am now ready to write a book of memories, showing the preciousness and value of my relationship with Mom. It will be glad, not gloomy; loving memories though sometimes rough.
One example is the progression of Alzheimer’s dementia leading to a terrifying time every bath day. Helpers invade private bathing, even if they are daughters or sons. Then, the risk of falling, so assistance is needed, and adjusting to cold air and hot water, followed by limited vision and the fear of “the sky is falling down drops of water on me!”
Fortunately, we found attending workshops held
by our local Alzheimer’s Association most helpful. I attended nearly every one
offered. I did volunteer work at the corporate office and worked the Memories
in the Making creative arts program with memory impaired seniors residing at
assisted living facilities. The Compassionate Care handout is one of the most helpful.
