I have posted some new post lately on our "howiscaroldoing" blog. Latest one is titled, "Carol is Dying!!" Would like to hear what my friends here feel about it.
http://howiscaroldoing.blogspot.com/
PS Some asked me to include a copy of the latest post, so here it is.
Carol Eldridge Blog News about Carol and Bill Eldridge
Thursday, March 4, 2010 CAROL IS DYING (Slowly but surly!) I don’t mean to be blunt or shocking but that is a true statement. Carol’s Alzheimer’s (AD) in now in the later stages and we see part of her loosing out to AD almost daily. And though I know that Carol would not want to prolong this despicable disease, her physical body continues to fight on. Cognitively, Carol is almost gone but she still likes to look at her picture albums and newspaper ads. Sometimes she does seem to recognize family but most of the time, there is no acknowledgement that she knows us. Physically, her walking has greatly degraded but we still work with her on a walker. However, the Nursing Home got her a wheelchair and always use that instead of the walker. The therapist works with her on MWF on walking and other leg exercises. We hope that will improve her quality of life. The Therapy seems to also be helping her cognitive abilities. She is still continent and can swallow and drink but needs to be fed each bite. Does use a straw most of the time. I think her vision is also failing but she loves to look at her picture books. According to the Alz Assoc. they estimate that Carol could live for several years or only several months. But it is inevitable. AD is a terminal illness with only a few research projects offering any hope for even diagnosing the disease early enough to maybe stop it or at least really slow it down. The medications she takes now do not do much good in the latter stages. But as I said in a previous blog, 2/17/10, God is Great and He definitely answers prayers. He has given Carol a peace and contentment that is making it much easier on her, and of course the family. She is in no pain, has no anger, or sadness.
I agree with Jeanette - your courage in being able to share this part of your lives is remarkable. You are also raising awareness of the reality of this disease for those who still think AD is a "memory problem".
Bill, you are her angel. She is at peace, I believe part of her is with God already. I know it is hard, but only God knowns her day. I hope that on that day you will know what kept her going was your love and care for her. Blessings to you!
Bill, I could have been reading about my own mother in your post above. I think Carol is doing as well as she is because of you and the love you have for her, your gentle ways with her. It somehow reaches her deep in her soul. You are sharing a precious time now.
Bill, as I have told you before, Carol is so blessed to have you to love her and take care of her. You are a true gentleman and a devout husband. My prayer is with you both as you complete this journey. Thanks so much for sharing all that you have with us.
Bill you are the kind of caregiver any of us would be proud to have. God Bless you for all that you do and all that you are to your beloved wife. It seems funny to use this statement but "what goes around comes around" is meant as a good thing to you. May you be blessed with the same kind of love and kindness that you display to others. Hope ya'll have a great night....
I wish I had the words you do to describe this most precious and intimate part of your lives together. I wish I knew you two personally. Your love for Carol is so strong and beautiful. Peace and comfort to both of you and thank you so much for sharing this story.