Archive for September 15th, 2007

The touch of your hand on my shoulder woke me -
“I’m going now, Honey”.
I sat bolt upright and broke out in a sweat. It was a dream but oh, so real. I actually felt your hand.
(Years ago, I always had you wake me before you left for work on Fridays – my day off.)
All night long I had you back as years ago – one dream I vividly saw you coming from your workshop to the house – collar up against the storm. A project in progress in the house, lots of people and laughter. I was in my recliner, as usual, and you’d joke as you went by me – tools in hand – and then you’d laugh your laugh of yesterday.
It was nice to see the old you again with every detail so clear.
But in some ways I wish the dreams hadn’t happened because I had forgotten your sweet laugh.
Now I want it back.

A Few of My Thoughts – Not to be Taken as Medical Advice

As I look back on the initial stages of our journey, there were no “dramatic” happenings which led me to believe my Hon had Alzheimer’s. At his young age of 58, this would never have entered my mind – Alzheimer’s affects “old” people, right?

If you have a concern about a loved one, look for deviation from normal in the small things. In my experience, the disease doesn’t manifest itself one day – like measles, etc. It’s a slow and very puzzling process. But the catch here is, the puzzling stuff keeps happening til it becomes more serious and/or noticeable.

Persons suffering in the initial stages are very adapt at masking or “having a system” to get thru their day. Remember, they too, are stressed about what is happening and very confused.

If you feel a loved one has a problem with “deviations from normal”, get to your family doctor ASAP. He/She may request a full work up of tests to eliminate any physical problem.

The MRI’s and scans are pretty helpful right away.

With the new medications, time is of the essence.

“Good Night – Sleep Tight”

Last fall we were cruising around shops in Vancouver with Bro when I came across this little sign. Had no room left in my luggage but I had to have it. So I carried it. Looked like a nut but I didn’t care.

Every night we cuddle up and our second last conversation for the day is:

Me: I love you, Hon
He: Love you, too
Me: Love you more
He: Couldn’t

Every night.

After a bit I roll over and say “Good night, sleep tight”

So that’s why I needed the sign.