Wednesday, December 29, 2010
What I want for 2011.
I am not sure what 2011 will bring as far as Mom and I are concerned. I pray daily that there will be peace for the 2 of us. I do know this horrid disease will not allow that to happen. Perhaps just learning not to react and perhaps building a wall around my heart and soul so each visit doesn't HURT so MUCH will work!
In 2011 my visits will be less frequent. I'll continue to pay her bills. Make sure whatever the nursing home tells me she needs will be provided. Cold, it seems very cold. I can no longer let this situation wipe me out for days. It is not fair to my 10 year old ,Heather nor my husband, Brad.
I hope and pray we all get through this disease with our loved ones. Thank God, He never gets tired of our petitions. Prayer for me is constant, giving "IT" to Him and NOT taking "IT" back is where I fall short daily.
God Bless you all and Happy New Year!
Friday, December 24, 2010
Santa came to visit
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
I want to be a kid...
But I am a grown up who is responsible so I won't do what I would like to and neither will any of you out in Blogland. We will take care of our loved ones who have this horrid disease until they pass away. NOT fair!
Sunday, December 19, 2010
Heather's virus
I have been praying how to handle this and doing my best to give it to God and NOT take it back.
Heather woke up at midnight and has been vomiting every hour since then. Her friend at school got this 24 hour bug on Wednesday. And as bad as this may sound if Brad or I get this we will have to stay home Christmas. I would miss the kids.
My plan is to take Mom her presents...no I really don't have a clue how this week will play out.
Brad has term for this kind of confusion he calls it " the speed bumps of life" that fits this for me...
Thursday, December 16, 2010
I don't want to ......
I HATE ALZHEIMER"S AND I HATE THAT DADDY IS GONE!
Sunday, December 12, 2010
Rachel's take on the crazy coat lady
It went something like this:
Old Lady #2 says to Old Lady #1 (my grandmother) "Is this the girl?" Old Lady #1- "It is."
Old Lady #2 tells me to follow her, which I do.
Old Lady #2 shoves an ankle length white winter coat at me and tells me ...she wants me to have it. I protest. She won't hear of it. I decide to thank her, take it, and then double back and return it to the nurses. I walk back down the hall and say goodbye to Old Lady#1. Crazy Nurse jumps out from behind the desk, grabs the coat, and yells "You can't take that coat!"
Old Lady #2 shouts "It's mine and I can give it to whoever I want!" Old Lady #1 says "You can't tell her what to do!"
Crazy Nurse shouts, "No! Because then the coat won't be in your closet and you won't remember and you'll say someone stole it!"
Insanity ensues. Mum and I quietly exit via the nearest elevator. Fifteen minutes later Mum gets a call that Old Ladies 1 & 2 resorted to fisticuffs, infuriated that Crazy Nurse had embarrassed me.
So even in a lock down unit and a well thought of nursing home Alzheiemer's patients can still make us laugh....kinda
Thursday, December 9, 2010
a little humour
As we were about to leave a rather attractive woman very well dressed walked up to Rachel and handed her a lovely off white coat in a cleaners bag. She told Rachel she wanted her to have it. Rachel just looked at me. I thought the woman was an employee....WRONG!
Cindy, the charge nurse, flew around the counter and grabbed the coat from Rachel and told the pretty lady(she is a patient not a staff person) she could not give her clothes away.Well as Rachel headed for the elevator my Mom, the lady and Cindy got into a yelling match about whether or not the lady could give her own coat to whomever she wanted too. We got in the elevator as the screaming escalated.
Half way home my cell phone rang it was Cindy she was afraid Rachel was embarrassed by the scene. I told her, " My mother is in a lock down unit with other people who are NOT quit "all there" so nothing would surprise us." I did call Rachel she was embarrassed not for herself but for her Grandma and the pretty lady.
Joe came over later and as I told him the story he told me that coat had been in Mom closet and she wore up to his house for thanksgiving. I wonder what Cindy will do if I tell her about the traveling coat?
Oh, other than the coat incident the visit was sweet.
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
catch up
Last week I spent 5 hours attempting to get the Veterans Widows' pension straightened out. We shall see if it is fixed.
To be honest I have had so much going on to get ready for Christmas and even more in my heart and soul I have not seen Mom in 3 weeks. I just can't get through the emotions.
Several of my friends lost a parent this year. Maybe that is because we are all getting older ourselves and our parents are pretty darn old!! Death is part of the whole picture. Funny thing is I am a Christian I should be at peace with death and what happens next. But the lose of loved ones is still very difficult.
In regards to my Mom it is worse watching her "melt" away is than her passing.
My heart aches...I know all of you have the same ache. I sometimes think death would be easier on some level. Alzheimer's just takes our parents a little at a time.
Thursday, November 18, 2010
to much
It has now been 10 months and for the 5th time I am submitting paperwork. This time I had to write "why and what for" I needed to submit a complete accounting of her "income" for the last 12 months. the is no income to keep because the nursing home takes every penny and why she could use the big amount of $97.98.
Since there is no life or burial insurance and there was no savings it would be nice if i could bank some money to bury her when the time comes. A friend assures me Medicaid would bury Mom. Here in NY the most basic funeral starts around $2500 I would have to borrow the money.
After spending 2 1/2 hours filling in more paperwork I cried and cried and cried.
My Daddy served our country and it seems to me this amount of money for his widow should not have to be fought for by myself or anyone else.
When I saw Mom Monday I mentioned this to her ( stupid me) and she got very confused. After filling out and writing, my husband held me while I cried. Brad is all ready to get our congressman involved. I sent off 6 forms completed a 2 page letter from me. I hope this time it will work.
You know taking care of my mother's business is draining because she can't help and it reminds me of the loss of both Mom and Dad.
After feeling so sad I get angry I didn't sigh on to do all this stuff. They were supposed to have everything taken care of so that whoever was left standing could either stay with me or in a lovely little apartment. NOT
The good news however is that since Brad, Heather and I are go out o town for Thanksgiving; Joe is picking up his grandma for Thanksgiving Day.
There are so may sides to the death of one parent and Alzheimer's claiming the other. For me I get angry, sad, tearful and many other emotions. When the dust settles I know in my heart that no matter how much is involved in my mothers' last years I'll do it all. Why? Because underneath all the bad times, I do love her. I know in my heart I am doing what is right, what the Lord wants me to do and Daddy would expect nothing less.
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Pretty heavy thoughts
"Stewart and Rachel, I am sending this to you both and hope your reading this will save my heart from having to repeat all this to you both about the visit. Joe and I took your Grandma to lunch. She looped and had a "peeing" accident. Mostly she was quiet..
Hi Joe,
I did not get home until after 9 I called both your numbers but got voice mail. Brad only said you wanted to discuss Grandma.
I can tell you it is very difficult to watch her dissolve before my eyes. I am not sure which is more painful and sad her being nasty and mean or her being so childlike. When I returned her as we walked toward the elevator she grabbed my hand very hard and simply said, " I hate it here." I squeezed her hand and just said, "I know."
When we got up to the second floor we got out and she looked around and asked where her room was so she could change her clothes. I pointed her in the direction kissed her and left. I cried all the way home.
For some reason her behavior reminds me of the scene from Wizard of OZ when the witch has water thrown on her and she yells, "I'm melting, I'm melting!"
I was told how difficult this would be; Alzheimer's has no rules nor a pattern each person is different. For most, so I am told by the "experts" she will gradually forget us and retreat to a world only she can get too.
Sadly I think that will be sooner than later.
I love each of you very much and pray with all my heart this does not happen to me. Later, Mom"
IT is not easy having a parent ill, I almost think when Mom had cancer and went through the chemo it was easier than this. At least with the uterine cancer we knew how to fight it. There is no fighting this disease it will take her no matter what I do. Even though we have not always gotten along, there were years when I was little she was all I had and I held onto her hand when I was afraid. Now the rolls are reversed only I know I can NOT protect her from what is happening. Do you think she knows that she is "melting?" Do any Alzheimer's patients know they are dissolving before our eyes?
When I look into her eyes these days mostly they are blank,sometimes angry and for a brief moment I think I see fear..
I can't imagine what it is to be in the mind of an Alzheimer's victim. Victim is an accurate description. Why? I have decided Alzheimer's attacks like a thief in the night; mostly to women who are over 75, it does not care about race, social status or anything else. Those who have been "attacked " have no way to get away.It traps them in a world where eventually they live ALONE. There is NO amount of money that will free our relatives no amount of medicine or care that will change their path. They will evaporate, they will melt away and we WILL LOOSE our loved ones.
Who they once were will be only memories, that is all we will have to hold onto. Maybe that is why there are so many tears?As I have said since the beginning of this blog "Alzheimer's Is HORRID!
Sunday, November 14, 2010
a letter and more
" Dear.....
On my google page it has a countdown to Christmas, which today said 40 days. Now I don't know about you but I am still trying to figure out what happened to Spring and Summer. I am so sorry for not keeping in touch. Facebook is about all I have time for these days. When I review the last 15 months since Daddy died I realize life has been off the wall here in Ballston Spa.
Just in case you are curious there are many people who have not heard from me. The sadness until recently was pretty overwhelming. I see why people used to wear black arm bands to denote a family death. It would have made it easier than explaining why I have been so sad. I didn't know I could cry so much. For me it seemed like I buried both parents.
To be very honest I didn't realize until a few weeks ago that I truly have been in mourning. Daddy was one of my best and dearest friends. He was for me the perfect Daddy. Leaving me with a Mother I seldom got along with and now who not only has Alzheimer's but continues to be mean and when we are lucky nice. Even though she is in a nursing home she is still very much part of my world. She takes a tole on all of us. Poor Heather sadly was Mom's last target. Heather will most likely not go visit her Grandma again.
And then there of course so many deaths, 14 in all, my surgery and yes the shoulder still hurts and there are days when my whole right arm is swollen. Of course the newest twist is Brad's broken foot. He is on disability for at least 4 weeks or longer. Of course that means another cut in pay.
Please know , I think of you all the time.
Email, facebook, call, drop a snail mail note let me know when you are home and have a few minutes to talk. I have called a few times but reached an odd voice mail and did not leave a message, I hope everything is okay.
Hopefully we can connect sometime before the year ends. We are here for Christmas and in Massachusetts for Thanksgiving.
Love you all, Jewels"
I hope that helps those who wonder how I have been, reviewing it just makes me feel tired.
I did see Mom the other day she is not as angry when we are in the "common area." She seems more childlike or maybe childish.
Since she appears to have no since of time Joe and I are taking her out to lunch on Monday. Discussing the holidays seems pointless. We shall see how that pans out... In the meantime I just want to find a quiet place so that my heart and soul can find peace and quiet.
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
hmmm for some reason....
When she and Daddy were in AZ. I begged them to come here for years. they choose not to. Now she is 15 miles away he is with our Lord and I dread yes DREAD having her involved.
We are having a Church Thanksgiving dinner Saturday. She went with us last year and had a good time. I have her ticket but I am afraid. Nervous, sad and generally over whelmed at the holidays being here already.
My new son-in-law's mother passed away right before the wedding to my Rachel. He would give anything to have her back for the Holidays. I wish ....anyway this is not an easy time. I feel like I am on an emotional roller coaster.I really don't wish her to pass to the other side BUT I have to admit for the rest of the time Mom is here it will only get more difficult. Or maybe I am just having a bad day...
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
my birthday
The sweet: My 60th party was full of 40 friends and family. Great music provided by a friend who is a musician, the best chocolate cake anyone has ever eaten. To my surprise lots of presents.My party was a wonderful success!
The bitter part: no call or flowers or card from my parents.
Now the next hurdle Thanksgiving...Odd they were in Arizona for 23 years and never flew out for any thing, Stewart and I were the ones who went west. So why should it break my heart that Mom is not going to be with us. We are (if all goes well with her) taking her out to dinner the weekend before Thanksgiving.Even though Christmas is less than 2 months away I can't even start to think of that holiday.
And just in case you were wondering there are still and will be until she passes; bills, phone calls and worries. All which I have to attend to frequently.
Since the retreat my heart and soul are more at peace. Thank you Lord!
Thursday, October 28, 2010
the visit was sweet
When I arrive and Mom is sitting in the "common area" it is much more likely that our visit will be okay. EVERY time I visit in her room it turns NASTY! So guess what? No Mother in the "common area." I took a deep breathe and headed down her hall, which oddly enough is called Harmony Lane.
She saw me she actually greeted me with a smile and kiss. Our visit was sweet only briefly did she start about being in prison but she stopped herself. I just kept talking about something else.
I kept it short we spoke about nothing really; it is the safest. I don't bring up anything of consequence or any subject that might bring on a fit of anger. I kissed her goodbye told I would see her soon.
Now you would think because the visit was sweet I would be happy. No, that little voice, call in "the Enemy" or whatever you want started the moment I got into my car. IT said," The boys are right you should have kept her at home, Why is she in the nursing home? She is so sweet. You are a horrible daughter!" ....you get the drift.
My mother is in the nursing home because she is in level 2 in the middle; there are 2 views of this Horrid disease 1-3 or 1-7 grading. It is eating her brain and I never know what will be her next word or action will be.
My heart breaks. I KNOW this is where she belongs....but.....this is not how it was supposed to be in her last days...and that is when the tears begin again and again.....
Monday, October 25, 2010
Peace
That being said, this weekend for me was a hoping to find a way to come to peace with the past and my mother.
Several things happened that worked on the healing of my heart and soul. After lunch on Saturday a few of us went swimming, we talked about our daughters and body issues general stuff and then our mothers not specifics but the general events that were painful. One of the women also had a mother with Alzheimer's; it was good to face someone who understood the anger and the depth of the sadness that this disease brings to each of us. We spoke of the words our mothers can say that cut us to the core.
It really doesn't matter that the disease aggravates the personality the words still hurt. Again there is comfort knowing one is not alone in this situation.
After a prayer meeting we broke into groups, my little group shared how at one retreat it was suggested that everyone write what their hurt, anger, frustration etc was then place that in a bag and leave it a the foot of a cross that was at the retreat.
Later Saturday night one of my roommates and I talked for 3 hours I did a lot of crying. the depth of the conversation was more intense than I had ever done mostly about how ...well that doesn't matter. I then wrote a letter tore it up into tiny peaces and left it at the retreat. I feel at peace now. I actually want to see Mom. I know she will still attack me, I know that sooner or later she will forget who I am. But for now for the moment my heart is at peace. Praise the Lord! John 16 vs 33:"These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace.In the world you shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world."
Friday, October 15, 2010
thinking about
The other holidays are being figured out but the sad part is Mom will not be staying here like last year. OF course last year was the first time she was here in 24 years.
I spoke with a friend today about his anger, how giving it to God is the right thing BUT that it doesn't take much to get angry all over again. Then you give it to God again and again and again. So now I am thinking it really isn't anger anymore it is a profound sadness. Of what was supposed to be as my parents years passed by.
I waited and begged year after year for them to fly back here to the east coast. We all offered to pay their way but it just didn't happen there was always a reason and now it is to late.
Mother and I have moments maybe even 40 minutes before it gets nasty. I remind myself over and over again I at least have her here. Several of my friends and my sweet husband have buried their mothers. How will I feel when she checks out of this world? Where will she go? She says now she hates God.. I hope that is the disease and not the truth. I wonder when the peace comes and when does it stay. I told a friend there are weeks when I am not sad or angry but I think that is a lie I tell myself because I don't want to feel the depth of dis pare that this horrid disease has brought into my life.
When she and Daddy were in Az. and I would visit it was hmmm.. no real words perhaps it was safe. Safe in feeling they were going to die in each others arms and I would become an adult orphan life many of my friends. There would be a simple funeral and I would sort through there stuff and move on with my life. NO didn't happen that way..No gentleness just loss not only of the world's best Daddy but the loss of ever having a chance to find a peace with MOM.
What is there to say when your only parent can no longer be part of the family gatherings. Why when hurtful things come out of that person's mouth do you have to right it off, "it's just the Alzheimer's talking!" I want to swear so loudly I want to scream...I want it over...forgive me but that is the awful secret that I have never admitted to before this second..I want it over now. I am tired and sad and crying again.
Friday, October 8, 2010
forgive my typos
She was just nasty!
Beverly's mean spirit immediately started by telling Heather she didn't like what she was wearing and why was she wearing something so strange. Heather fought back the tears and she told your Grandma that it was the dress she wore in her cousins wedding and that she had gotten dressed up for her (meaning Grandma Carey). Sami and I told Heather to spin around so Mom could see how cool the skirt is....Mom smiled and stopped her nastiness UNTIL...
We got in the car and Mom started in on me... Why did I have her car? How she hates the prison, Why is she there etc. I went about 10 feet, stopped the car and informed my Mother that I was not going to listen to her attack me so she had 2 choices she could be nice to me or she could go back to her room.
She swore under breathe and said, "I guess I have no choice, I'll be nice." I realize she does not do this shit around my sons, or Rachel nor most other people BUT i seem to be fair game, this is why I am a wreck after most visits!
Rachel arrived a few minutes after we did to the diner.
Mom had a drink and for the next 90 minutes she just "looped" about a variety of subjects.
I saw her 2 times this week.. I am done for a few. I hope and pray her mental state which is like her Mother's during her Alzheimer's in NOT MY path!
I HATE THIS!!!!!
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
another visit ...
I had once again been called about the disappearance of cotton panties. I went through every drawer and found all but 2 pairs which I assume were in the laundry. I then tagged each drawer with the contents so Mom would know (hopefully ) where to place her clothes. I know the laundry does not have time to do laundry like I do at home but several of her white undies were gray.SIGH!
This woman once ran the OR of one of the biggest hospitals in Southern California. On some level this all must bother her. Or does it? It certainly plays havoc on my soul and heart. I came home and sobbed and was in major dis pare for the rest of the day.
Joe, Rachel, heather and I are all over our colds so IF nothing gets in the way we are taking her out for Chinese dinner on Thursday.
There are 78 days until Christmas I am dreaded them when it comes to Mom. I miss Daddy and I miss her.
Friday, October 1, 2010
who is?????
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
aawwww
Something about visiting her while in her very small room makes for bad visits. The suites are lovely however the resident must be able to do private pay 50% of the bill. The monthly cost for Baptist is $13,789.22. Had my parents made better choices she could have one of those rooms. There was no savings, no insurance and my mother was/is a chronic gamble and went through about $500,000 in 20 years. Anyway from her perspective her bedroom is a prison then gain on days like yesterday her anger over being there is pretty intense. Of course no matter what I know to be true I feel QUILTY!
That's why this blog is call Alzheimer's is horrid!
Friday, September 17, 2010
no money
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
communication with you all
Perhaps it is because I have a Mac or who knows. i have read all of your blogs and have written comments to most then the weird box shows up with odd letters I fill it in then hit the key then I get an Error message...
So for those who wonder if I read what you all share I do and believe me there are moments when what you say is exactly what I need to hear. I hope my words help each of you, time to do some laundry. God Bless, jewels
Sunday, September 12, 2010
Wow what happened to...
The week before the wedding was crazy busy. The big event was Rachel,
bride to be, Krissy, my life long friend and myself picked up Mother. Then we took her out for manicure; not cheap when you add 2 pedicures (Grandma and the bride) tips for me and a french manicure for Krissy.
Then while I attempted to cash a check to help cover the expenses. If this was a blog about how I hate B of A I would say more. Anyway, Kris and Rachel delt with finding an outfit at Peter Harris. By time that was accomplished Mom was pretty tired. Off we went to the lovely diner across the parking lot. We all had a drink to toast Rachel then had a hardy lunch. We kept Mom out for about 4 hours. I am not sure who was more exhausted her or me. All in all her behavior was that of someone suffering with Alzheimer's...oh yes, that would be her. We took her back to her Prison as she calls it and we headed home.
I choose not to have my mother at Rachel's bridal shower and felt a little guilty.
The day of the wedding arrived and Stewart, the middle son, and his wife Carolyn picked up Mother. Stewart and Joe took charge of Grandma while I enjoyed my daughter's big day. (pictures will follow). It was odd my x-husband and his family was there and so my mother thought it was my wedding to him. At one point she asked Krissy why I was a holding another man's hand ( that would be Brad my present husband). Mom and I spoke a few times but Praise God the kids and even my x husband kept her busy.
Before the wedding I saw her 6 weeks in a row. Each time she would tell me that she hadn't seen me in months. After the wedding Brad, Heather and I took off for a much deserved 2 week vacation. Joe became the contact for the nursing home while I was away. Thank heaven there was no emergency. It was nice not thinking about Beverly for those 2 weeks.
But immediately upon my return there were letters about her finances and some small problems at the nursing home.
When Heather and I saw her after we got back from vacation the first thing out her mouth was, "housekeeping stole my panties and now I am wearing paper diapers! you need to fix this right now! Yep, it was great being back. Do you know that medicaid does not pay for clothe incontinent panties? Do you know that 6 cost $68.50? Not a big deal IF there was money in her account BUT the nursing home takes every penny and the additional VA stipend of $96.25 will take another 6-9 months. If my husband had not hand a major 45% paycut 18 months ago I would have no problem with the extra things Mom needs once in awhile. Right now there is no extra money in my budget. Another reason to save and plan for our old age!!!!
When I left her last week I spoke to her doctor for the first time since admission in January. It took me a few minutes to get around to what I needed to know but her figured it out I just had to make sure this is where she belongs. Because as much as I hate to admit it I still feel guilty as sin. After a few minutes of basic Alzheimer's talk her doctor told me. 'Jewels, your mother has only part of her mind working only part of the time. This is where she needs to be so she can be safe." Then he added, " and it is okay if she hates you and feels this place is a prison because for her it is." WOW!
The newlyweds are on their way here now for dinner, Joe and I will take Mom out this coming week for dinner, heather is back in school a big 4th grader. And Brad and I are holding our own with the Lord right there with us.
I still hate this disease but thanks to all of you in blogland I know I am not alone!!!!
Saturday, July 24, 2010
a little better
This was just posted an article, “Top 50 Online Resources for Families Coping With Alzheimer’s” ( http://radiologydegree.com/
As for my Mom I have seen her 3 weeks in a row briefly and never alone but the visits are okay. All most sweet sometimes. There are moments when I feel clam and can deal with the endless amount of paperwork I get regarding her care and insurance and the pensions that still have not been transfered.
My oldest daughter will be married 2 weeks from tomorrow. We are going to bring my mother ,Rachel wants her there. Please everyone prayer that she stays in a "good place." We have a back up plan IF Mom starts to get vulgar. And why is that? She never ever said a profanity in her life and now when she is wherever her brain takes her what comes out of her mouth would make a sailor blush! She also never ate sweets or used salt now those are her favorites! The goal is to take her shopping and get her nails, toes and hair done the Thursday before the wedding. She had to redo the health care proxy and the nursing home called me to let me know I of course am the one that has been assigned that duty. YUK! Being my mother mother is not new to our relationship but I don't really want this job. BUT I am the only one so .....I hate this disease it is just plain HORRID!
At P/T the other day a lady was in the waiting room I looked at her and was in awe at home together she was physically and mentally and she was 5 years older than my mother. I thought that is how it would be with Beverly but then again I figured Daddy would be here still too! Never know what will happen that is for sure!
Friday, July 2, 2010
more mail more bills more frustration
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
a good visit
Rachel's wedding is less than 6 weeks away, as it gets closer we will pray that Mom can stay calm and attend. Rachel really wants her t here now and so do I.
My heart is not as heavy but this is still HOrrid!
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
i don't want tooooooo
Even when your parent is in a nursing home. There are visits or calls from your children who once again saying, "Why did you put Grandma there?" Good friends who say,"She really doesn't seem that bad!"
How do you explain that even though you know in your mind the hateful words the blank stares the confusing conversation that my son Joe refers to as the"Loop" are exhausting. They are not really that person who raised you. Let's not forget the paperwork that seems endless when you are the POA of our loved one.
I am a Christian and I know in my heart the Lord understands how I handle this horrid disease. I do have so much repecct for you out there in blogland who seem to have seem to come to a quiet peace. Perhaps when more time goes by it has after all not been year since Daddy died and I found out the truth out about my Mother and her horrid disease.
I want to go back in time when Daddy was taking care of Mom in AZ and I would come out to visit and all was simple. I don't want tooooo have a Mother with Alzheimer's I want her whole again.. BUT she is gone and my family is left with a woman who is daily slipping away into her own world.
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
I can drive again
Sunday, May 30, 2010
don't ask
Thursday, May 27, 2010
last of the ...
I wonder how she feels does she even know we have not been there ? Does she miss us? IS she sad? Who knows ...
Friday, May 21, 2010
$$$$$
Supposedly I will be receiving forms from the military and Daddy private pension within the next 10 business days. Then just one lone trip to the nursing home for accounting and myself to sign and that part will be over. We shall see....
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
sighhhhhh
I had surgery on April 29th and I felt like the biggest baby. I so missed my parents being there when I woke up. The pink roses Daddy would have had waiting for me. Mom talking to the doctor and nurses making sure they had done a good job. I sent her a mother's day card so did Heather. I did not call. I have not got back to see her since her birthday the 22 nd of April. I really really hate this disease. I am affraid of who she will be when I go again. So I don't go I don't call then I justify my like of visits by her poor mother behavior when I was a kid. it is an endless circle of quilt and sadness. My middle son wants to know why she is there and not in an Assisted living place where she has more freedom. I again have to explain about this horrible disease and the the Grandma he knew when he was little is no longer around. I won't be able to drive for several more weeks that is my excuse for now, oh there are people who would be glad to take me but..But I just can't make myself go.....yep Alzheimer's is horrid for everyone!
Saturday, May 1, 2010
cried in preop
I haven't seen my mother since the good visit on her birthday last month. I am afraid that it will be another nasty one.. So I am holding onto the sweetness of last time.
My son Stewart has decided to go to law school, he is almost 33, he has not been in college since he received his BS in 2000. He and Carolyn will be leaving the area I'll miss them and that will make Mom's world smaller, another loss. Joe and Stewart take her out to dinner every other week. It has become part of her routine. Maybe I'll go sometime...in the summer.
I miss my parents mostly Daddy, having both parents a live at my age 59 was uncommon. Now wherever I go I run into someone else who has one deceased parent and one with Azheimer's. we are a growing number! and we all agree Alzheimer's is horrid!
Friday, April 23, 2010
Praise The LORD!
When we walked in the lobby I asked the receptionist to call Beverly's floor. She did. The nurses told her to send me up. The walk to the elevator and the ride up 2 floors had my stomach in knots.
When the elevator door opened I saw my Mom the same time she saw me. She jumped and "ran" ( as much as an 85 year old woman can) to me," hugged me, told me she loved and that she missed me. We spent the next hour holding hands and talking about silly things.
We kissed good bye and I told her I would be back the next week. I thanked the nurses for their care of my mother and they all had tears in their eyes.
The Lord really worked a miracle!
Just so you know I am well aware that this may or may NOT happen next time but for now I hold the visit close to my heart and Praise God for this gift!
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Beverly's Birthday today
My sons have told me again my name brings out the worse in her.
I just called the nursing home and was told it would be better not to see her today. So why does that hurt so much? She has been a less than great parent all my life. She treats me like I have no value so why should I be in tears that she does not want a visit?
My lovely niece got married Saturday. Ryan, her new husband is great as are the members of his family. Sadly his 68 year old Dad has recently been diagnosed with this horrible disease. We spoke briefly about his Dad getting better and I had to tell him the honest truth that is is a one way path to hell.
Every time I have to deal with something to do with this disease and my mother my stomach hurts and I shake!
I guess that is why I call this blog, "Alzheimer's is HORRID!" because it is!
Friday, April 16, 2010
On vacation
As I was getting ready to head out I realized I had to call the nursing home to make sure, God forbid, if anything happened to my mother while I was on the opposite side of the country that someone could take care of things.
I could not get hold Joe the oldest. That left Stewart, I called him and he is fine with be my fill in.
Odd the last time I flew into LAX was to go to Az. and bury my Dad and pick up Mother to bring to back to NY with me. Every time I think I will be okay with his death and Mother's Alzheimer's I realize my heart breaks.
My Dad's ashes are here at Krissy's home waiting for us to take him to San Diego so he can be buried at sea. Seeing his remains in the putter container has made me very sad and very reflective. Daddy was the best part of my life from the time I was 10 years old until when he left us last July.
Now I am left the dreams mostly they are rehashed events with my mother. Don't get me wrong there were some sweet times but she was pretty negative I was never smart enough, thin enough pretty enough..you get the drift.
I have spent my parenting years doing my best to let my children know they are MORE than enough. Each one has gifts and talents and I would like them and love them even if I had not been their Mom. When I have been angry or "short" or as the first 3 have become adults I have stepped over the boundaries I have not hesitated to apologize for being wrong.
When I reflect on my childhood with Beverly and the situations that she put be in that led to me being sexually abused etc. I realize I deep inside always thought just maybe she would say she was sorry.
That will never happen now. There are times when I know I have forgiven her but every once in awhile I think to myself,"what would it have been like to have a Mommy that ws always there and nurturing instead of a Mother whoprovided a home and food but no emotional supoport. A woman who could be "Donna Reed" to late now; I will be 60 in a few months. My past with Beverly can not be changed and the future is grim. I need to come to terms with the fact that who I am is because of what happened to me. There was no Donna Reed Mommy in my childhood.
I had a fill in Mommy for the last 7 years , sadly she just past. I often wondered what it would have been like to be raised by her...
Blogs I think are for the writers more than the readers so forgive me for going on and on. Others have gotten up so we must get ready for the day and the wedding events.
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
her birthday
Joe said last visit Mother was "happy" and didn't cry. Her meds have been changed so maybe she will be okay with seeing me.... sigh
Monday, April 5, 2010
another holiday without....
I cried part of Saturday no Mom no Daddy.
You know it is hard enough not having Daddy around but Sunday all the kids were here for dinner and an Easter egg hunt. I wish I could have had my Mother here but I didn't dare not knowing what would come out of her mouth.
Joe got copies of "Still Alice" for myself and the other kids, Heather my 9 year old is reading it now? IT is an easy read only took about 4 hours but it is so sad and boy could I relate to the husband. If you haven't read it, find a copy.
Anyway...life goes on there are so many other things to think about but no matter how focused I am on the Lord or the other parts of my family Mother and her Alzheimer's is always in the back of my mind.
Does that ever change....
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
qustion
a phone call
Today 2 of my sons will take my mother out to lunch or dinner. It is hardest on the oldest, Joe was always close to his grandparents. For me it is just sad, she and I used to love to go out to lunch.
My oldest daughter is getting married in 5 months, I am having surgery next month...life is continuing and she no longer can be a part of any of it. That feels so heavy on my heart. Her anger is more than I can deal with and the words are not a big deal on their own it is just so out of character for her. My heart aches.
Monday, March 29, 2010
orphaned
The part that is the hardest is for all my life when there was any kind of medical thing. having babies, losing babies, surgery of any kind I would pick up the phone talk to Daddy first then my Mother, who had been nursing since the beginning of time.I can't talk to either and I miss them so much. I am an orphan....
Sunday, March 28, 2010
pictures
There were photo of mothers father, mother and her sister too, those are all sepia tone and very faded. There is one of my mother's mother, Nina, ( who also had Alzheimer's) that was "painted" over to be color, it is very pale now but the color is still there.
I guess I''l have one of the boys take a few of them down to her in the nursing home they might give her some comfort. Knowing that I can't just drop by and give her these is hard. These are little things but they make me so sad.
The boys (41 and 33) are having are hard time too. This is not the grandma that they knew but at least she is sweet to them. Joe says the "loop" of her conversations drives him crazy but he still sees her once or twice a week. She enjoys his visits the best he stays more than an hour each time. I think it is because Joe was little during her happiest time. It is sweet for her.
She apparently dismisses Carolyn and Stewart after about 20 minutes. They would go to see my parents in Az. about every 9 months because Carolyn's family is in the west. They saw Daddy and Mother 2 weeks before Daddy died. I think somewhere in her mind Mother knows that and doesn't want to remember.
Saturday, March 27, 2010
the hope
Friday, March 26, 2010
the visit and the tears
I half hoped there would be a page for me to rush up and see this woman who gave birth to me. Instead and sat and thought and spoke with the receptionist and cried.
Then the intake nurse arrived who had done Beverly's interview at our home just a little over 2 months ago so that I could place her in this nursing home. She assured me , as all health care providers seem to do, that it is the disease. Even knowing that does not keep it form breaking my heart.
Jackie assured me I was a good daughter and that I had to accept she would only get worse. Dam it I hate Alzheimer's!!!!
After an hour the troops returned I could tell by their faces it did not go well. Heather had tears in eyes and rushed to hug me. Where was her "good Grandma," I wanted to scream "SHE"S GONE FOREVER but I didn't we just held each other and cried. It seems Beverly who always thought any woman that swore was horrible used several words to Heather and the others letting them know I was no longer her daughter and that I obviously did NOT love her because she is now in a prison.
WHY???? Science can clone a sheep replace numerous body parts but why can't they fix the brain?????
She was not the Donna Reed Mom that my other friends had,she was divorced in 1953 not cool to be Catholic and be divorced, she worked 2 jobs. She was beautiful, tiny with a long red pony tail to her waist, she was stuck with me. There was no family to help so she left me alone to tend myself from the time I was 3 until I started school. There was no social service or daycare I really raised myself. I promised my self early on that I would be the Mommy that I dreamt about her being.
Skip to the man I called Daddy for 50 years. BOY do I wish he was still here then she would be with him and I could believe it was all okay again. Truth hurts and this disease is HORRID!
The shock of Alzhimer's!
I have been using facebook for the last 8 months to chronicle the death of my Daddy and the craziness that my Mother has brought to my calm peaceful life!
My friends and family are trying hard to understand. What a surprise it was to go to close up my parents house in Az. and bring my 84 year old mother back to NY. Forget the financial disaster my wonderful Daddy left. Mother (Beverly) was in shock, of course, but all of us are in upstate NY so there was no alternative other than to bring her here with us. Us, being my wonderful husband, Brad, myself, the youngest of our 5 kids and only one left at home, Heather ( 9).
Within a few days I realized Mom truly did have Alzheimer's . Daddy had said she was having some "issues" BUT he forgot to say in our daily emails and every other day phone calls that my mother had moved into a different world mentally.
After 6 months of living with us. The disease began sucking of total every once of energy and being more and more mean 2 months ago today placing her in a nursing home was the only choice.It was not an easy thing to do. BUT my family was starting to fall apart. Alzheimer's is Horrid. I am not sure what it is like in the brain of one who has it but I know what hell it is for the family who has a member with he disease.
She has made it clear she hates me right now. Again it is the disease, it still hurts.
Heather has off today. Her other grandma passed away a month ago and she really wants to see my Mother. I am gathering 2 friends and we are bringing in goodies to her. I'll sit in the lobby while they visit. Will she even remember Heather? I have warned Heather she might not, will she remember the others with her who she met while living with me, who knows.
A few days ago I spoke with the charge nurse, Cindy, she has said that Mom is now hanging out in the "common" room and smiling and talking . Then a few times a day she clouds over cries and tells them all how horrible am to have done this to her and that my Daddy would be very angry.
I spoke with my Dad the day he died and his last words were to extract a promise that I would take care of Mom no matter what. I did and still am I have her POA. As any one knows that can be a pain especially regarding any finances.
I was inspired to do this after seeing "Julie and Julia". The Lord has been with me though this and sharing that might help others. Bottom line as I say on a regular basis Alzheimer's is horrid!
Say a pray cross your fingers, I'll let you know how the visit goes.