JOAN’S BLOG – WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 29, 2007 – SEEKING COMPANIONSHIP
When I started this website, I said it was a place for discussion of issues unique to spouses of Alzheimer patients; a place to feel free to discuss topics that we spouses would not feel comfortable discussing with caregivers of parents and grandparents; a place where there would be themes no one else but an Alzheimer spouse could understand and relate to.

Based upon the feedback in the e-mails I received, yesterday’s topic of “Loss of Companionship”, and how to fill the void, is one with which many, many spouses are struggling. I am going to post the topic on the Message Boards, so you can discuss with each other how you are dealing with this issue of loneliness that only we spouses truly understand.Please read below for a story of hope and love after Alzheimer’s.

A couple of months ago, we went to an awards luncheon for the Alzheimer’s Memory Walk. Our group came in first place for fundraising, by the way. I had to mention that, since I almost dropped dead from walking 3 miles –I thought I was in better condition than that.

One of the speakers was an 89 year old man, who walked with a spring in his step, and spoke eloquently and articulately about his experience caring for his AD afflicted wife. He spoke about how much he loved her, and how he cared for her with love, respect, and dignity. He spoke of the woman who was by his side on the stage, and how she loved and cared for her AD afflicted husband. They met in an Alzheimer’s Support Group, and became friends, lending support and companionship to one another.
When their spouses passed away, he asked her out on a real date. After 6 months, he proposed, and considering their ages, did not feel a long engagement was in order, so they were married soon afterwards. Their story was uplifting and heartwarming. They never wavered from the love they had for their first spouses – they took care of them with reverence and respect until the end,  but then recognized that the time had come for them to move on with their lives – with each other. They continue to be active in the Alzheimer’s cause, giving lectures and raising money.

 Feedback to joan@thealzheimerspouse.com

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