Wizard of Alz blog

Well…a very deep subject!! I’m told. I can’t believe it has been almost 5 years since my last post! I finally felt like I wasn’t in a well these past 5 years. I met someone 6 months after I put my LO, (Laura), in a Memory Care Facility and I was finally able to smile again. It had been so long, my face muscles were sore! I had forgotten what Hope and Joy felt like.

Life took on a new meaning as I navigated through the complexities of caring for a loved one with Early-Onset Alzheimer’s. The emotional and physical toll it took was immeasurable, but through it all, I found strength I never knew I had. The simple moments of joy and hope now carry a profound significance, serving as beacons of light in what once felt like a never-ending tunnel of darkness.

It’s humbling to realize how much can change in just a few years. Reminiscing on the past, I can appreciate the growth and resilience that has stemmed from such challenging experiences. Above all, I’ve learned to cherish the present, holding onto every precious moment as a reminder of: “not knowing what’s around the corner”.

Jennifer, (many of you have have already met and love), is not just understanding, but incredibly supportive. Her unwavering encouragement and empathy have made all the difference in my ability to be there for Laura. I’m grateful to have her by my side, and with her love and support, I have been able to navigate this difficult journey without feeling resentful. While I deeply wish Laura had never been afflicted by this dreadful disease, Jennifer’s presence reminds me that dwelling on wishful thinking or looking in the rearview mirror won’t lead to the best life possible. After all, one can miss where they are headed if constantly looking backwards.

I learned a long time ago, that you’re dealt a hand of cards and you make the best hand you can. And with every deal, there are challenges and there are lessons learned (or not).

Let me catch you up on the last 5 years, hopefully in a “nutshell”.

Laura went from ambulating with a walker, and able to go on outings via car to being wheelchair bound and unable to transfer, even with assistance. (needs to use a Hoyer lift). Conversation slowly drifted away but that “twinkle” of recognition was always there. Now, she is unable to eat or drink; she is on Hospice. Monday she recognized her sister-n-law’s name, Lupe, with a big smile and yesterday I don’t know if she recognized me.

The Memory Care Facility, #Silverado in San Juan Capistrano, CA, IMHO, is truly outstanding and the best in our area. The level of care and affection that the staff, from administration to maintenance, provides to the residents is truly heartwarming. Laura, receives an abundance of love from everyone throughout the day. There are lots of community pets, and it’s especially heartwarming that a kitty has chosen to make Laura’s room and bed its home. The activities and music that are provided have brought so much joy and pleasure to Laura. It’s comforting to know that Laura has found such happiness in this environment, especially through unexpected pleasures like discovering her love for flower arranging and watercolor painting. Who knew she loved flower arranging?

Laura’s experience is a testament to the transformative power of compassionate care and engaging activities, showcasing the profound difference it can make in the lives of individuals.

In another cruel twist of fate, my mother also has developed dementia.

When it was evident that a change of scenery was needed, my sister and I found solace in our shared decision to entrust her care to Silverado. Despite its lack of proximity to our home, we were comforted by my experience of care provided by Silverado for Laura. While the distance may pose a challenge, the well-being and comfort of our beloved mother remains our top priority. She too, is thriving! I don’t think I have ever seen my Mother so engaged with people and activities. She’s 87 and her spirits are high, which brings us immense joy. She told me the other day that she thinks she’s supposed to get a “boyfriend”! LOL…Navigating this transition hasn’t been without its difficulties, but knowing that she is in a place where she is not only cared for but also happy makes all the difference.

If you don’t know the song, “God Blessed the broken Road…” by Rascal Flats, give a listen: God Blessed the Broken Road-Rascal Flats. YouTube