Attended a BBQ the other night, all new friends to me except the host and hostess.
One tends to observe couples and their interactions, at least I do.
Several times in the first hour, a fellow caught my eye. He was a gentle, handsome soul with a shock of snow white wavy hair. We seemed to connect. Was standing by the BBQ and he smiled at me and said, “You have beautiful teeth.” He left the patio and his wife appeared concerned her husband may be “bothering” me. I assured her it was quite the opposite – he is a kind and gentle man.
“He has AD, we don’t get invited out much anymore, I guess people are uncomfortable.” I could have cried. Wanted to tell her people are just greedy and unloving if that is the case but just gave her a hug. Later in the hour she came up to me, sharing she had just been told that Wayne is in care. Like a sponge, she soaked up answers to the questions she posed to me.
Two new friends in one week, in my life. Of course we are all in our 60’s plus but darn – the future is indeed, not friendly, for too many. Bless your hearts C&B.
When I visited my parents last weekend, my dad told me that he thinks my mother is becoming more uncomfortable talking to people on the phone or interacting with people in social settings. She feels awkward if she forgets words when she’s trying to tell a story, or she just feels self-conscious in general. As far as I can tell, though, all their friends are totally supportive and couldn’t care less if she remembers the right word. I don’t know if we can convince her of that, though.
Like I said before, it seems to be that God is putting people in your path that you can encourage face to face and shoulder to shoulder. What a ministry. You are such a blessing with your writing…how much you can do face to face…just saying. Blessings on your day and week. Prayers and hugs….Mary Lou
I agree with Mary Lou. Your blog has been such a help to many already, and I’m sure that as you meet folks who are traveling your path, you will be a great help to them. I hate it, though, that it is your path. Bless you.
it’s wonderful to be able to share your experience with someone else, especially when they are feeling all alone. God put you there for a reason. Take care
Keep that smile ’shining’ Jean as that was the first thing I noticed about my wife. It must be a dental profession thing you guys have. Keep smiling and remember it is your choice how you view or react to any given situation. A smile and kind heart makes even the most heart tugging things go down easier. Hang in there as you and Wayne’s journey have touched so lives.
Ice
So many…..tooooo many people experiencing dementia/Alzheimer’s!! What a blessing that you can give some comfort and information to those you meet.
You’re right – I guess we’re all in our 60’s or thereabouts. But gee – 2 AD’s in such a short space of time? It does look like they were put in your path. And like Dolores said – a blessing you can give comfort.
Hugs
I just talked to a man who used to own a restaurant we went to all the time. He had to sell it becasue he wife had AD. I just called him tonight out of the blue – she isn’t doing well at all – six years it’s been. He’s taken care of her all this time.
I hate this disease.
Sandie
The future is NOT friendly for a lot of people and I fear that number is growing way too rapidly.
HUGS to you for being able to share your knowledge with this new friend. I’m sure she said a special prayer of thanks that you were brought into her life.