My friend Stephanie told me the news today that her mother has Alzheimer's. Stephanie was my best friend in high school, and I have not spoken to her, until this day literally, in twenty years. It was like picking up an old guitar that hadn't been played in a very long time. Familiar, friendly, perhaps a bit out of tune, but the fit was still comfortable. Hearing her voice transported me back to a time when I could just be me and it was grand! When you're eighteen, you can do anything—or so you think. Stephanie and I made some damn good memories before we went our separate ways, and I remember her mother.
I am deeply saddened for Stephanie. The road ahead will be paved with bittersweet tears, and a roller coaster of emotions that must accompany a daughter watching her mother's memory slip away from her. I feel a kindred connection with Stephanie. Alzheimer's has wrapped it's merciless grip on members of my extended family, and I can't help but wonder if maybe my beloved mother might be the next victim. Perhaps I may be afflicted one day and be cursed to forget the faces of my two beautiful daughters, without whom life would be unbearable to me. One can only hope not. My advice to my friend would be—make your memories with your mother now, as many as you can. Try not to dwell on the fact that your mom might not remember, you will.
No comments:
Post a Comment