For me, it’s my home. My wife died in her sleep, in our bed back in 2021, but in my home, I am still surrounded by her. I loved her deeply. I still love her. But Alzheimer’s had plans no one had any answers for. I look at the chair in our living room where she used to sit and I remember her beautiful smile. I remember sitting on our front porch talking and drinking wine. And I remember her wonderful laughter. The pictures and weavings on our walls remind me of the places we traveled to. Her writings on the white board in our office remind me of her dreams and desires. Reading the poems she wrote remind me of how much she loved me. Even the structure of our home reminds me of her and her vision of our life together. She was a courageous woman who wasn’t afraid to talk about the bleak future she faced. My home holds all these memories. And I would rather die than leave this home and all the memories it holds. It is truly my happy place.
My parents' home in Walnut Creek was my safe haven. Since August 21, 1972.
On January 11, 2004, my mother forgot all about my father's 80th birthday dinner the night before.
For the next fourteen years, dementia slowly took her life. But thank God, she always remember who I was.
The last eight years of her life were difficult. I go to work. I go visit her after work. Often cook, clean and eventually bathing and clothing her. Then go home tired and worn out. Rinse, repeat. Many times I had to deal with
accidents.
In 2018, my father deteriorated fast and passed after eleven days without eating and drinking. My mother passed eight days later. She was in a different bedroom and sensed when he passed.
The siblings and I are finally selling the parent's house. I am sad to see it go
but relieved to let it go. So many memories of good and bad.
Thank you for sharing your story.
Life is short. So short. Some day you and I will be reunited with our loved ones.
Until then I sincerely wish you health and happiness.
Edit: Apologies to all for the semi-thread jack. Triggered by ST's post but in a good way. Memories...
