Over several years, I’ve had the opportunity to witness my parent’s shared journey as well as that of so many others walking a similar path. As we would spend time at the Veteran’s residence where my Dad lives, I would see spouses and children lost to the experience of their loved one’s dementia, sometimes coping my choosing to be absent from someone they loved in an effort to ’save’ themselves.

I was always mindful of how different my mother looked; how vibrant and playful she remained; and how willing she had become to trust that in her ongoing wellbeing and commitment to herself would be found the courage and the strength for her to stay present to my ever-disappearing father.

Although my Dad is not the man he once was, he is nonetheless still the man who remains a constant part of our shared experience. Over time, my mother has let go of lamenting what was and has found a variety of ways to not only accept but thrive on what it has become. No doubt, there is sadness and pain – and they are fleeting! In the greater scheme of things, Lorna has both her husband and her life – differently.

We (my Mom and I) are greatly appreciative of your having shared our conversation with others. If it makes it possible for one person to reawaken their commitment to their own life, it will have been what we had hoped.

Your work is important, Thank you for allowing our voices to be added to your own.

Warmest wishes,
Louise LeBrun