Finding a New Way to Love

I have run away from home . . .


I am spending the next few days at my mom's house because my sister who does the 24/7 care for my mom needed a mental health break, so she went away for the holiday and was supposed to be back on Sunday the 26th. Only she called on Friday to inform us that she cannot get back until Thursday, so another sister and I are tag teaming to make up the full time care. Jeanne has been there since Friday morning and I am going to stay through the first part of the week and then Jeanne will be back on Wednesday afternoon.

I have stayed with my mom before, but this will be the first time I have been the primary caregiver. When you are dealing with someone with alzheimer's disease this can be very, very challenging indeed. You have to keep reminding yourself that the person you used to know is no longer there. Even though she may look and sound just like my mother, she can't reason, or remember in the same way.

She gets very upset when her routine is changed, so I have to be very careful to do things the same way they usually are done. Lucky for me that my other sister who lives here will still be here most of the time to help me out.

I know I can do this, one woman with alzheimer's can't be as challenging as my five kids and husband -- well at least can't be challenging in the same way. I have my daily mantra of prayers all set out.

God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change,
the courage to change the things I can
and the wisdom to know the difference

and help me make it to Wednesday with some of my wits and most of my sense of humor.

pray for me if you get a chance.

Pax