I was diagnosed with mild dementia earlier this year. Now after having a PET Scan I was told I have positive amyloid plaques inside my brain. My husband and I are in a research program under my Doctor's supervision, and one of the ladies in the program called me and told me the results of the PET Scan. From what she told me, it's in the middle of my brain. I have an appt. to go to my Dr. on Oct. 2nd and I have a couple of questions to ask them. I don't know if it will come from the inside out or what. I already have plaques on the outside of my brain and now the inside. My Moma and 5 or 6 of her siblings passed away of complications from Alzheimer's, so I know what to expect. I'm 62 years young. I know Alzheimer's doesn't care how old you are. It doesn't care about anything. I know God is with me all of the time, but the problem is, I've seen what it does, and I don't know if I'm strong enough to go through this, knowing my husband wants to take care of me. He told me the last thing that I would have to worry about was going into a Nursing Home because the only place I'm going to die is in his arms. As sweet as that is, and I would want that to happen, I don't think he knows how hard it is to take care of someone with Alzheimer's. I took care of my Moma full time for 1 year. Really 2 years but she would go to her sisters house on the weekends and then come back home during the week. Now that sister is in a nursing home with Alzheimer's. She just turned 96 this past July. She's the oldest sibling and it's just her and one other sister left out of 9 siblings. Seeing everything that I've seen, I'm scared to death of the unknown!!!
You do have a lot on your plate and I hope that you are able to keep such a wonderful attitude. And you are staying busy. I've heard that is a big plus. Bless you and I wish you all the best as you learn more about your condition. Please post and keep us updated, as you are able. Your writing is impeccable and inspiring, by the way.
I decided to get a baseline cognitive assessment for someone my age -70- and will have my review with my neurologist in a week or so.
I hope that one you have moved and are settled in your new home, you and your husband will purposefully take time for day trips, weekend getaways, maybe a vacation you two have always wanted to take....picnics...potlucks with friend and family...lots of time walking in nature together... breathing fresh air...feeling the sun...sitting under old trees. Do what you love and make happy memories and laughter together. Keep in touch.
I'm amazed at your positive attitude but I see you have faith in the Lord. I'm sure that has a lot to do with it. Keep reading your Bible and draw strength from Him.
It's great that you're getting prepared. The more you know, the better and smoother it will be. You have a lot of time to enjoy life, maybe travel with your husband, socialize with others and have as many wonderful experiences as possible. Get your church to pray for you, as I will every evening when we remember our friends and sick loved ones.
How great that you will be getting used to your new home early on. That way you can keep your routine the same. It will be comforting to have things where you put them.
May God make this transition for you and your family as easy as possible. May the medications and treatments be effective and prolong the progression greatly. May you have good health and your husband the fortitude to go the journey.
Keep the faith.
Numbers 6:24-26 (NIV)
The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.
Have you looked into medications? I know that's controversial, but, I would explore it, as it is reported to provide time and benefits. Also, let us know, when you know more. Is there some chance there is another explanation for the MRI results? There might be more testing or other explanations?? Just questioning. I'll look forward to seeing how you are doing.
You are the source of knowledge to Alz because of your family history. You get it. But you're worried your husband won't. I know this reads a little scary: How about the two of you visit an Alz facility for your husband to see what he is potentially up against. Later, the two of you come up with a plan for best case, workable case and worst case scenarios.
I wish you the best in your journey...May God keep you in his care.. Just accept each day as it comes..do not fear......fear is only wasted time you will not get back...spend it doing something you enjoy!
Might you consider write a very specific advance directive at this time, detailing what you do and don't want in therm ofvcsre?
Thank you for sharing your story with us. Sending you love and hugs. I think its only natural to have these fears about the future. I wonder if it might help to speak with a counsellor or join a support group. Your husband sounds like a wonderful man and maybe he would join you. There is a lot to think about and hopefully with some planning it can alleviate some of your fears.