Alzheimer’s disease is cruel. And its cruelty is unparalleled, robbing patients and stripping
entire families of what they hold dearest. Definite characteristics are associated with this
mind-altering condition, one of which is an unfortunate outcome. But if you’re in the throes of
the disease, you already know this. I did.

When a loved one is diagnosed, it is impossible to foresee how things will play out. We think
we know, but until the various stages rise to slap us in the face, we just can’t fathom any of it.
The best we can do is tread water, but the water we scull isn’t clean, pure, and easily
navigable. Murky waters of uncertainty churn beneath us, casting scary shadows as we
paddle on. And we will paddle on, but not alone.

Stay the course
As a former primary caregiver, I treaded those same treacherous waves. My mother began
to lose ground to dementia at an age at which she still had so much living to enjoy. It was a
hard diagnosis for her and for her family, but we were determined to stay the course and to be
strong for her and for one another.

It wasn’t an easy journey, but we discovered several things along the way. We were stronger
together, and our spiritual faith kept us sane. We learned to tread well. Even as the waves
increased and became darker and more severe, joy lit our way. Even in the difficult passing of time, joy was available. We successfully treaded Alzheimer’s waves and kept Mom afloat
for as many years as God allowed. Then, suddenly and sadly, it was done.

Hope is not abandoned

We weren’t left without hope. Our faith continues to carry us, and we are comforted in
knowing that we treaded the waters the best we could, sometimes swimming, sometimes
struggling, but always keeping our noses above the waves. We cared the best we could for a
precious mother who could no longer care for herself. In that, we are comforted.

Treading the uncertain, murky waves of Alzheimer’s disease, staying its course, and seeking
joy in the struggle is the best any of us can do.

It is enough.

Leave a comment

Note: This article was originally published in Treading Dark Waters, an Alzheimer’s News/BioNews Services, Inc., publication.