Yesterday was the meeting between my brother and sister at the Chapter. I hoped and prayed this would change their minds about believing I have FTD. I just got word from my sister and her thoughts were, "it was very enlightnening, but she needed more information." After 7 years, a copy of doctor's reports, materials from the Chapter and now speaking to the Chapter I hope with all of my heart this correct and new information they were given yesterday that in time this may help change their mind. At this time I still have my doubts.
Tracy, Some people just never accept what is going on. Maybe your sister and brother fall in this group of people. They feel if they don't accept it then it can't be true. Don't worry about what they believe, just take care of yourself, your husband and that great son you have. You can give up on them, just don't give up on yourself.
Tracy, it is their loss that they cannot accept your condition. You have done what you could, if talking to them doesn't help, and they use e-mail, keep them informed with regular e-mails. I have done this with my dh's family and several friends. It works well and takes the emotion out of it. Sometimes, it comes down to doing what you can to live with yourself rather than them.
I've found that a few old friends, when informedof the Alzheimer's in an e-mail message just never answer or else just don't mention it when they do. And this is after they've specificlally asked what's going on in our lives.
I sent little notes about my husband's condition with some of the Christmas cards. Only one person responded! If I did hear from them, either by e-mail or note, no mention was made about my DH. I really can't believe it. I had made a promise to him when his diagnosis was made over a year ago that I wouldn't tell anyone about him. I knew it was wrong to make the promise, but I kept it, until a few months ago when I began telling people. Family members (cousins, etc.) have been great, but friends don't seem the least be interested or concerned. Someone wrote that they were saddened by my letter. I sent her another e-mail after she sent hers, but it has been over two weeks and I haven't heard anything else. I feel hurt, saddened, a little angry, and confused.