What is Alzheimer's? It's more than just not remembering. The technical definition is "a progressive disease that destroys memory and other important mental functions."
When someone you love receives this diagnosis, you're not sure what to think, well I wasn't anyway. My Grandma, always such a well put together woman, received this diagnosis in 2012.
First, it meant she couldn't drive to see us anymore; she was forgetful and would get lost or confused. Then it led to much more. Her not remember how to properly care for herself. To eating breakfast multiple times each morning, since she could make a bowl of cereal, but didn't necessarily remember eating it.
Then we had to move her from Indiana with her boyfriend, back to New York in 2014. She didn't understand this, but she knew she wanted to go home, not knowing exactly where that was. While in her assisted lviing home, for about a year and a half, she got worse. She was mean to her loved ones. She would move things all over the place. Even go into other residents' rooms, out of pure confusion.
Once she could no longer feed herself, that's when she no longer qualified for assisted living. After about six weeks in a nursing home, we were able to get an apartment for her, and provide 24/7 care, beginning at the end of 2015. Between my sister and I, my amazing mother, and several other caregivers, she was provided round the clock care while the Alzheimer's progressed.
My Grandma Jacquie's journey ended on 10/2/2017. She is at peace and whole again, with her mind and capabilities back. We miss her dearly, and speak of her often.
So, why is it so important to find a cure? Because it's not fair. Memories matter. I love my Grandma, and I cannot imagine going through this again with another loved one.
The End of Alzheimer's starts with me, and you.
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