Thinking of you all

May flowers

Now that hubby and I are on the other side of our five year dementia journey, I still read posts and I am commiserating with and praying for you all. We took care of my FIL first at his house, then our house, then 8 months in MC, then back at home for the final 10 months.

There were times this year, I never thought this difficult time would end. But it does. As I remember my FIL, I don’t often think about the last year, I think about all the quirky things that were just so much part of his personality, and were so endearing. Up until the last year, we had enough sweet memories to wipe out the painful ones. Even the last year, I don’t think about the getting cussed out, or hit or kicked, I think about that time he kissed my hand or told me I was a good girl (not sure he knew who I was, but nevertheless…)

So, all in all, it was hard, and we were alone, but it was worth it. DH and I would make the same choice to caregive for him all over again. 

For everyone facing difficult holidays, just hang in there. It does end and you’ll be surprised how much you miss them (and yet glad their suffering is over)

CatsWithHandsAreTrouble

((hugs))

Thank you for sharing your journey as you enter in this new chapter of your life. Your kind words mean a lot to me and no doubt to others too!

M1

Agree, thank you for this.  Good to hear from you, and happy holidays to your family as well.  Raise a toast to absent friends and family.

Joydean

Thank you May Flowers for sharing!  It’s good to hear from you and so happy for you and your family. Wishing you and all your family a very blessed Christmas!   

I remember when you posted about your father in law kissing your hand and couldn’t help smiling !! 

Olly_Bake

MayFlowers, you have been on my mind. So glad to hear from you!!! I do miss you and your FIL (hearing about the journey). But he is resting now and hopefully you and DH are as well.

I tell you caregiving keeps you so busy that it is hard to get in here at times or do things for yourself for that matter. I have wanted to give an update about dad and our round of aides for a while now due to others and their post. I finally got that one done on the aides and hope to post an update on dad as well before year end.

Battlebuddy

  Glad to hear your update! And thanks for the words of encouragement ! 

   Just really needed to hear that there is life on the other side. 

SusanB-dil

Hi May flowers -

Thank you.  ((hugs))