My mother was diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer’s when she was 57. As she slowly declined my Dad told us he wanted to take care of her like she took care of us. He kept her in their home as long as he possibly could. He would get maybe 2-3 hours of sleep at night making sure she was okay, changing bed sheets, changing her clothes, washing her and he never complained. When my mom was moved to a full time care facility his devotion never ceased. He visited her everyday. He continued to care for her even with the nurses around. He helped lift her, feed her, wash her, paid close attention to every detail of her care. For ten years he did this. No complaints. No resentment. He was gentle, loving and devoted. My mother passed away March 22, 2016. My Dad was by her side. I am humbled and in awe of what I witnessed. He is a truly special person and I’m so lucky to call him Dad.
Credit: C. Julian