This weekend Sararosa and Isabelle took mom to the bathroom while they were out and about. Mom got in the stall and asked why she was there. Sararosa said it was so she could go to the bathroom. Mom then said she didn't want to go and got kind of upset. Sararosa and Isabelle gently said it is fine Bubbe you don't have to. But then mom sat on the toilet seat fully dressed and waited for them. Sararosa said that mom had forgotten that she had to go to the bathroom. The kids sure had learned how to be gentle with their grandparents and even showing empathy for our pain.
I guess this is a glimmer of light in an otherwise dark situation. We are lucky that the kids have learned to nurture and to care like this. This value runs deep and was passed from our parents and our in laws as well. A nurturing group of people sure makes the journey easier. I also feel like my sisters and I will be well cared for by our kids when the time comes.
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Deborah--I wrote on the Mille and Ed blog but not sure it is active so I'll write here.
ReplyDeleteI lived next door to your parents in Arrowhead Village in LaCrosse. My husband was in Vietnam and I had two small children and also 2 brothers who lived with me while going to college.
My son,Billy, was 4 at the time and everytime he was outside when your dad came home, Ed would sing a song for him. He was so kind to my children and they looked forward to seeing him. Your mother was busy with (I think) 3 children and a new baby but always found the time to assist me with medical situations, etc.
We loved having them as neighbors and my children played with a couple of you girls. I even have some slides from back then!
I am so sorry that your Mom has developed Alzheimers, but she seems like she's happy in the pictures I see. My husbands mother is in the same situation and she's very pleasant and happy although she's not aware who he is.
Say hi to your father for me--it has been 40 years but I still have fond memories.
Anne Hawkins (amhawkins@yahoo.com)
I remember you as well. I will be sure to tell my dad hello. It is too bad my mom's memory for even the past is gone but I will tell her hello as well. I took a break from the blog because we were on vacation and then came home to care taking and jobs and a new school year. I am back at it though. How are you? I hope well and I hope your kids are doing well too.
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