Once a month I go to an Alzheimer's caregiver support group. In the beginning it was just me, then a former colleague came with me as her husband had early-onset Alzheimer's. He's since died. Then it was me and three friends from church. One of the three, Chris, no longer goes as her mom died several months ago.
Now it's me, MaryAnn and Carol. Mary Ann and Carol are caregivers to their husbands. There are others there as well -- a gentleman who cares for his mother-in-law, and two women whose husbands suffer from it.
There was a whole family who used to attend -- they were awesome. Dad was in a motorized wheelchair and still independent -- Mom had Alzheimer's. The adults kids and Dad came -- what a loving family! I unfortunately heard that Dad had a heart attack and died in the last year. Mom is still in the Alzheimer's unit at the nursing home.
I've learned so much from these people, as well as from Karen, our group leader. None of us want to be there -- but we are blessed to have Karen and each other for support.
Anne, you are indeed blessed to be in an Alzheimer's support group. Alzheimer's disease is a scary thing. When my husband's sister was showing signs of it she was very confused. Now we are fortunate to have it be in remission for her.
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