Reflections of a Daughter of the Silent Generation and Mother of Generation Y
I was lucky that this sweet, funny, intelligent, kick ass, sassy woman was my aunt and that her daughters and their spouses were part of my village. I hoped we’d see Mom through her life with the steady, patient and brave approach that helped them see Aunt Joan through hers. I was thankful to them for showing me that it could be done.
—excerpt from Living Is for Living: A Caregiver’s Story
Stepping away gave me time to feel Alzheimer’s vastness – like standing beside the Grand Canyon, exhausted, I felt overwhelmed, like I could fall right in. The following summer, during valuable caregiving hours, my spouse and I visited local memory and nursing care facilities. Our options better understood, I could get back to taking it a day at a time and feeling grateful for the moments we still had with Mom in our home.
—excerpt from Living Is for Living: A Caregiver’s Story
It was an honor to be one of 130 Maine athletes to attend the National Senior Games where I played on Team Phoenix. Watching women, ages 50-90, play basketball, not only inspired me, it gave me hope – I wanted to be kicking ass when I’m in my eighties and beyond too!
—excerpt from Living Is for Living: A Caregiver’s Story
That Father’s Day, sixteen years since Dad died, I heard him heckle when I missed foul shots, laugh when I threw elbows, and cheer when I backed someone down. When I worried about missed opportunities, I recalled his “don’t worry about what’s over and done.” And, when I noticed the 85+-year-old men playing on a neighboring court, I imagined Dad and his killer hook shot in their midst. Too bad I didn’t get that gene!
—excerpt from Living Is for Living: A Caregiver’s Story
Stepping away from caregiving to fly to the 2019 Senior National Basketball Games in New Mexico wasn’t easy. It helped to know that, if she could, Mom would be cheering us on.
—excerpt from Living Is for Living: A Caregiver’s Story
When I discovered our eleven-year-old bunny rabbit sprawled out in her cage, I was hit with disbelief. Even when death is expected, peaceful, and quick, it can be hard to accept. I’m grateful for my spouse and neighbor Mandy who helped me through.
—excerpt from Living Is for Living: A Caregiver’s Story
In support of a member facing a cancer diagnosis, her team had handed out bracelets with the words No One FIGHTS Alone! Running errands and thinking of this fierce, kind and resilient athlete, I pulled into Dunkin Donuts for an afternoon pick-up. When the guy in front of me bought my cup of coffee, it was the high five I needed, reminding me to reach out to others too.
—excerpt from Living Is for Living: A Caregiver’s Story
When I thought back on a lifetime with Mom (54 years and counting), I recalled her words, like salve to my soul. As reserved as she was, the words she chose stood out – even the ones that stung when delivered, felt like love now.
—excerpt from Living Is for Living: A Caregiver’s Stor
I don’t believe Mom saw Alzheimer’s coming; I do believe, though, that it would have eased her mind to know that she continued to make new friends, bringing joy, humor and grace, and inspiring the rest of us to do the same.
—excerpt from Living Is for Living: A Caregiver’s Story
