First of all I am not lessening the value of what people do for friends and loved ones with Alzheimer's. God bless you if you do anything. My heading applies to the difference between caring for a lifelong partner versus caring for a relative. I can still remember Joyce as a young, happy, energetic person. She is still happy and energetic. The difference now is that she can't communicate anymore. Life can be lonely even with two people in the house. I am very fortunate that she still knows who I am and does respond to requests but talking to Joyce isn't much different than talking to the television. Her condition has stabilzed from my viewpoint and I will continue injections until some new miracle drug comes along and improves her condition.
Starting June first we are going to a 2.5 week cycle for injections. I haven't seen any change when we went to 2 weeks from 1. We will evaluate as we go and adjust as her condition dictates. She still seems to be holding her progress since January. Thank you all for your support and interest. Sorry there isn't more to report..... PAL
Saturday, May 16, 2009
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PAL,
ReplyDeleteThank you for the update. I'm glad she's maintaining now, but I understand what you are saying. Try not to feel guilty if you need to get out and make new friends, Joyce would definitely understand. You will always be there for her and always love her, that is apparent. But humans need communication...you need a chance to vent your frustration and get out and laugh a little. If you can find someone to sit with her while you go out a few times a week, that would be good for both you and Joyce. I know that I am much more patient with Mom after a little break from all the responsibility.
I'm glad Enbrel is keeping her stable till the next "miracle" comes along.
Felicia