ALL ALONE

“John” was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease five years ago.  John lives with his wife, “Annie”, in a Residential Care Facility, which offers a lot of support with John’s care.  Annie said that in two days they will have been married sixty-nine years.  The couple have two sons who both live nearby.  Both of their sons are very involved and supportive.  

Annie also has three sisters living about half a mile away.  Her sons and sisters call frequently and are very supportive as the need arises.  This is a very large, supportive, involved and loving family.  Annie said that they moved into the facility about five months ago.  She already has made so many friends due to her bubbly personality.  Annie herself is ready to help anyone, but like most of us, finds it difficult to ask for help. 

Annie lovingly spoke about her three sisters.  One of her sisters became widowed about two years ago and offers a lot of support having experienced herself the loss of a spouse.  Annie and John are so blessed with their family and the facility’s support.  But, in the end, Annie is losing the love of her life.  Her grief, not surprisingly, is very powerful.  After sixty-nine years, it won’t be easy, but I so appreciate her insight regarding her emotions.  I know she will reach out as needed.  I wish her all of the best.

ALL ALONE 

 

She is the primary caregiver for her husband.

They’ve been married sixty-nine years.

He was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s a few years ago.

His decline is slow; but constant.

 

He is becoming increasingly weaker.

He can no longer walk alone.

They cut up his food into small pieces

as he struggles with swallowing at times.

 

They reside in an Assisted Living environment.

The staff help out with a lot of his care.

Both of their sons live nearby

and offer tremendous support.

 

She also has three sisters

who all live just down the road.

They call and visit all of the time.

She so values their help and comfort.

 

I asked her what helps her cope

when she hits a bump in the road.

She said she loves to do puzzles;

while so embracing her family and friends.

 

But then, she slowly turned inward

and with a soft voice quietly said,

“It’s not easy, as when I think of him dying,

I truly will be

               all alone.”