I've found myself looking back into my childhood lately as my mom won't have her memory for very long. She was diagnosed with Alzheimer's in 2017, and it's progressive, meaning her short-term memory will essentially disappear over time, and she will only have a few long-term memories. That's why it's so important to spend time with those you love, those close to you. Create those moments, not just memories. Laugh, cry, share stories and good times. Spend time with people on those important dates like holidays, birthdays, milestones, etc.
Every day is not promised or guaranteed. Life is precious, and it's so important to just be present, because not everybody gets a photo album for their brain to carry with them always, but they can get a hard copy in pictures, faces and hugs.
My mom's diagnosis was so hard on my family. I still cry often and wish this didn't happen. Our memory and our brain is a powerful thing.
My dad is a great man. He's always keeping notes for mom and pictures. There's pictures all across the house of her family, grandchildren and those important to her. Dad always passes the phone to her when I video chat with the kids, always helping to keep her informed of appointments and special dates.
Mom has been such an integral part of our family. I'm incredibly grateful for our time together. She was very present in my childhood right up to adulthood. She's always been there for the big moments of my life. When I got married in 2019, it was a little tough for her to travel, but she was there in the front row smiling. She was also there as my witness. Mom also flew out with dad to hold our first son. It was so special to me and I will cherish and remember those times always.
Of course, things look a lot different now, but I'm glad I have those memories to look back on in my life and know that I've had such incredible parents.
I definitely call as much as I can with my kids present. I want mom to see them and hear their voices. Even though she may not remember their names, I want her to talk to them, hear their cute stories and all their moments. Halloween came and went and mom lit up seeing their costumes. That's what I call a moment. Moments are very important in our family now more than ever. Being present is crucial as the past won't do us too good. Showing up on holidays, laughing and having a good time making moments is what it's all about.
Pictures are also important. It's humbled me greatly. If I'm having a bad hair day or simply don't look my best, I take the photo for Mom because it's important that she gets to see her daughter, son-in-law, and grandkids. It helps her to see pictures for her memory. I'll do everything in my power to have her continue to know her family.
Alzheimer's is an awful disease and I wish there was a cure. For now, I will continue to hold onto my memories of Mom and continue making moments, sharing moments and telling her how much I love her.
