Alzheimer's Blogging: Alzheimers Blogging:

As I walk through the nursing home, I see men walking around aimlessly, not sure where they are going. They have on sweat pants or shirts and pants that really don't match. Some say hi and are pleasant talking about going somewhere with a dead relative living in the past. Some are angry and only use four letter words that you won't let your little ones listen to. They all have one thing in common, Alzheimer's. At one time they were useful to society. They were loved by their family, helping whenever they could, and holding down a job. Than this terrible disease called Alzheimer's melted their brain making them what you see today.

My father in law was born January 20, 1926 on the South Side of Chicago. He grew up during the Great Depression only to finish the tenth grade and joined the military on May 4, 1944. He fought with the Eagles 86th Infantry Division, Black Hawks. He got married May 19, 1948 to Virginia Gaeta and they had three children. He drove a truck most of his life for the Teamster's Local 705. He passed away June 13, 2004.

You may be wondering why I am telling you this. As I walk through the nursing home and watch these men wonder around, I know that each of them have a story. They did something for society once. They were a father, brother, and uncle once. Now they can't remember anything but at one time they could tell you everything about their life.

Listen to your parents, grandparents, aunts or uncles. They have something to say. Someday you may not get to talk to them and they can't tell you about the adventure in life they endured.

Sincerely,
Marie Fostino
Alzheimer's A Caretakers Journal
Seaboard Press An Imprint of James A Rock Pub., Co.
www.mariefostino.com
www.mariefostino.blogspot.com