THE FINAL CHAPTER

"It's like watching The Notebook." ~ Deb Marshall

A couple times on this blog I've mentioned Alzheimer's, my mom's fight with the dreadful disease, and a friend who walked every step on that long path with her precious husband. (Long Story Short - 4/16/18; On My Heart - 3/11/19)

A few days before Valentine's Day, TA's final chapter ended. Since then, I knew I wanted to share something with you. I've processed and mulled over what to say for days. Actually, as I started this, I still wasn't exactly sure where it would end up. Just let it flow, and then figure it out.

Eleven months and two days was TA's time at a care facility, first in Assisted Living, and then Long-Term Care. He began Hospice while still at home, which carried straight through to his final day. (Hospice staff really are angels here on earth, IMHO.) What a blessing it was that someone from Hospice spent each night by his bedside so the family could rest at home when it was clear his days were numbered.

Long before Alzheimer's stole his memory, he and his bride, my dear friend, planned and arranged to donate their bodies to science for medical research. In my head, I imagine how wonderful it would be if the scientists studying his brain made an important discovery about Alzheimer's that would lead to groundbreaking treatments, understanding, and an eventual cure! I told my husband I think a decision to donate your body to science is admirable, and I need to find to more about doing it.

I've been friends with LouRae (LRA) and Tom (TA) since the early 1980's. We've been through many things together, and she and I have a special sisterhood. A most precious memory I have of them on this Alzheimer's journey is even in his final days whenever she would put her face near his face, even if his eyes were closed, he knew it was her and would pucker up for a kiss. That's the sweetest thing! And it's a true testimony to the powerful love they shared, and the legacy of their marriage and life together.