FOREVER SUNDAY

My mother was a strong, independent woman who lived alone in her house for 17 years before suddenly, in what seemed like one fell swoop, had everything taken away from her. All she really wanted was to laugh and enjoy her journey through life. A simple life that included going to her church, socializing with her friends, and spending time with her family She loved to laugh—a contagious laugh that sometimes began with a hoot.

Helping my mother when she got Alzheimer’s was one of the most difficult times in my life. I often felt guilty, frustrated, and depressed, but I also felt compassion and an unshakeable sorrow. I would cry at night, feeling an overwhelming sadness for her.