It's hard to believe Mom has been at Ganzhorn for over 2 years.  In some ways it feels like she moved in just yesterday, in other ways it feels like a lifetime ago.  Our family has a solid routine down - Dad and Paul visit every Tuesday and Thursday, sometimes with guest appearances from friends and other family, and ALWAYS with treats from The Little Dutch Bakery in Mt. Healthy.  Residents, family members and the team at Ganzhorn have come to expect the box of pastries, so much so that Dad gives us a heads up when the bakery closes for vacation! 

Both Mom and Dad enjoy long weekends together when they can spend time at our house, and everyone enjoys family time with Mom during the holidays.  Last year, we were settling into our "new normal", now we are embracing every opportunity we get to share with Mom.  There is a wonderful book called Creating Moments of Joy, by Jolene Brackey.  It has taught us to appreciate the small things, like an ice cream cone with Mom.  Not to stress over things we cannot control, like when Mom says she is going home.  Insterad of getting upset or trying to reason with her, we simply redirect - ok, before you go, let's find you coat.  Within a few minutes, she has moved on.  If there is a silver lining, this is it.

Sundays are reserved for church, then girls day out.  I'm so grateful that she is able to get around.  She has slowed down tremendously, but is always up for a trip to Dairy Queen, my house to see the dogs, and of course Aldi's!  Sometimes it's just a car ride listening to her favorite music.  Our relationship has definitely evolved.  I was a daughter, then a caregiver, to a daughter again, but this time it is different. I find myself picking up the phone to call her.  Or thinking how much I want tell her something, get her opinion, or ask a question that I should have asked before, knowing I will never get the answer now.  Sometimes I get caught up in these feelings and it's hard not to be a little bit bitter.  Eventually, the bitterness gives way to the realization that I have been gifted with 2 versions of my Mom.  I love them both.

For those who don't get to see Mom, she has purpose, she has joy, she has new friends and old friends and she STILL has her personality.  Mom is still a clean freak - she cleans up after meals (dishes by hand because everyone knows dishwashers just don't do the job according to Mom).  Mom is a caregiver - she tends to other residents and staff alike.  Greets everyone with a hug and kiss (unless she doesn't like you - let's face it, she has always been direct thanks to the Hall in her!).  Paul is STILL her favorite.  Even with Alzheimer's Disease, I can't convince her otherwise!   

 Our story is like so many more out there.  My Dad tells me everyday about someone he has reconnected with that is, or has gone through the hell we experienced.  Unfortunately, not everyone has Ganzhorn as an answer to their prayers.  Our family is so very grateful for the wonderful care Mom receives everyday.  We are grateful for her safety.  We are grateful for the precious time it has given us with her.  Much like in years past, this year, we walk to honor my Mom, support my Dad and hope that together, we can find a cure.  

Together, we can end Alzheimer's disease. Please make a donation to advance the care, support and research efforts of the Alzheimer's Association. 

Thank you for joining the fight against Alzheimer's!