Mom, I wear a smile when I visit you in Memory Care, but beneath my smile lies a layer of sadness I cannot fully hide.
I try my best to not let it rise to the surface, but I often lose that battle. I’ve always been a deeply feeling person, and you were too. You were my example – the one who taught me to let my feelings out instead of burying them deep inside.
That’s why I believe, even now, you can sense my emotions and the emotions of those around you. Alzheimer’s, for all it has taken, has not touched that part of you.
While words now fail you, you continue to connect with people through an unspoken language and understanding of your very own.
Your empathy and warmth are still there, shining through the fog of Alzheimer’s. It’s as though your spirit refuses to let go of the special qualities that made you who you were – who you still are.
This cruel disease, for all that it has taken, hasn’t taken your spirit or the essence of you who are and will always be – and for this precious gift, I am forever grateful.
You’re still my Mom, and even when I think I’ve all but lost you, you’re still teaching me through your actions.
You’re still teaching me the importance of showing kindness to others.
You’re still teaching me the importance of showing and giving love.
You’re still teaching me the importance of treating others with compassion and care.
Your lessons are evergreen. They’ve found a permanent home in my heart and in the lives of everyone you’ve touched.
And so, I hold onto that, Mom.
I hold onto your teachings, your shining example.
They carry me forward into this life.
No matter how much Alzheimer’s tries to steal from you, it can never erase the love you’ve given or the impact you’ve made.
That is your legacy – one that will never fall victim to this disease.
Your legacy is ours to cherish, now and always, until the very end.
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