Such a poignant and moving story! Before I became a writer, speaker, and coach, I was a pastor. I ministered to multiple people with Alzheimers and their families. It was powerful to see the depths of love and heartbreak of the family members who were no longer recognized by but continued to visit their loved ones (in one case for over a decade).
It was very hard with my mom. The care facility was good, kind and patient staff. She often thought we were out at a restaurant, just pay the bill, Mary. So I can go home and don't tip too much, either.
Yes, in many ways, I think it’s harder to cope with a loved one’s Alzheimer’s (especially late stage, when they don’t remember who you are) than with their death.
My husband's grandmother died at 108. she waited until she was emancipated to start having children. She had 16 live births, all natural and breast fed. Easy for family reunions when your branch shows up every 16 years. After each live birth the baby leaves behind antibodies. Nature's way of protecting the species. She was walking around her property and dipped her toe in a pond and died of snake bite.
It's often said as long as a person is remembered, they're never truly gone. My dad died in 2013 and my siblings and I keep him alive with stories and anecdotes every day.
I do genealogy research as a hobby and the reason I do it isn't as much for the facts and data, but for the *stories* because those are what live on.
I really enjoyed your story. I never knew my grandparents but if I did I'd wish for a grandfather just like Carl. Thank you for sharing this lovely story.
Beautiful. Such a touching ending.
Yes, her death was a release of a very heavy burden. I'm more afraid of losing myself than of dying
Such a poignant and moving story! Before I became a writer, speaker, and coach, I was a pastor. I ministered to multiple people with Alzheimers and their families. It was powerful to see the depths of love and heartbreak of the family members who were no longer recognized by but continued to visit their loved ones (in one case for over a decade).
It was very hard with my mom. The care facility was good, kind and patient staff. She often thought we were out at a restaurant, just pay the bill, Mary. So I can go home and don't tip too much, either.
Yes, in many ways, I think it’s harder to cope with a loved one’s Alzheimer’s (especially late stage, when they don’t remember who you are) than with their death.
Such sweet memories. You have (and I mean have, he'll always BE your father) a very special father.
Thank you. My dad was really a good guy.
Such an honor!
Thank you
This piece reminds me so much of home of long ago. Thank you so much Mary
Careful!! Lots more stories to share!!
I loved reading this piece Mary. Thank you sharing
Thank you, glad you enjoyed it
My husband's grandmother died at 108. she waited until she was emancipated to start having children. She had 16 live births, all natural and breast fed. Easy for family reunions when your branch shows up every 16 years. After each live birth the baby leaves behind antibodies. Nature's way of protecting the species. She was walking around her property and dipped her toe in a pond and died of snake bite.
Wow, now that's a story to share!!
Oh, Mary, what a beautiful tribute to your father and your grandfather. Makes me think that I should write more about mine.
Definitely, tell more stories. It really helps keep my people with me.
It's often said as long as a person is remembered, they're never truly gone. My dad died in 2013 and my siblings and I keep him alive with stories and anecdotes every day.
I do genealogy research as a hobby and the reason I do it isn't as much for the facts and data, but for the *stories* because those are what live on.
Exactly, they stay with us as we retell their stories
Very moving!
We are a family of storytellers and my dad always said, some of them are true. Thanks,
Mary
Thank you for sharing this story. It choked me up and made me smile. 🤍
My wife Wendy insists one of my biggest talents is making her cry…. And laugh.
I really enjoyed your story. I never knew my grandparents but if I did I'd wish for a grandfather just like Carl. Thank you for sharing this lovely story.
Carl really was great. He also taught me to spit with great distance and accuracy. Mom never forgave him for that!
I really admire the way you skillfully and humorously wove Steinbeck’s George and Lennie into your essay. A touching and funny piece. The best kind.
Went to the Steinbeck museum in California, was very moving. Made me appreciate my dad and Steinbeck even more
I simply loved your last two sentences. Nothing ties a good tale together like a good ending that tugs at your heart. Thank you.
We always celebrate dad's birthday and other occasions with a cookie or 2 or 3. So have a cookie, for George
A very warm and touching and real story. Thank you for a bit of sunshine this morning.
We are a family of storytellers and my dad always said, some of them are true. Thanks,
Mary
Beautiful post. So many thoughts and your words resonate in many ways. We were so fortunate to have the families we have had and have. Thank you.
Our family grows beyond just blood, making a rainbow around the dinner table. More stories!!!