I just got back from admitting my mother into a special care facility.
In the good old days, it would have been a "psych ward" but those days are long gone.
Tentatively, she's been diagnosed with Alzheimer's, but I've been told that Alzheimer's can only be confirmed as a diagnosis after an autopsy.
But, in the hospital, the term Alzheimer's was bandied about quite readily.
That's neither here nor there though. My mother is ill, is in the hospital, and I am the only one allowed to make decisions regarding her care.
Normally, this paragraph would be the "light posting" paragraph, but I don't know, blogging is a nice distraction.
I may post more, I may post less, I may even quit altogether.
We'll see, I guess.
One last thing. I still want my damned fatwa.
Posted by: Filthy ALlah at February 08, 2006 05:18 AM (Mz14N)
2
Ah, Vinnie, sorry to hear this news. The thought of one day having to care for our parents is always a wake up call. My thoughts are with you. Be strong.
Posted by: Oyster at February 08, 2006 05:36 AM (YudAC)
3
My condolances. My grandmother passed last year after a long period of senile dementia. (Likely would have been preventable, too, had she not been a Christian Scientist... don't get me started.)
Posted by: Cybrludite at February 08, 2006 05:43 AM (XFoEH)
4
You and your mom have my thoughts and prayers.
Posted by: dick at February 08, 2006 08:00 AM (XlQVK)
5
So sorry to hear this Vinnie.
Posted by: Rusty at February 08, 2006 08:08 AM (JQjhA)
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Vinnie, been there done that...not easy. Signing those papers weighs heavy. Take care of yourself while you take care of Mom...know that you're doing the best you can for her. Thoughts and prayers.
Posted by: Mary*Ann at February 08, 2006 08:09 AM (ssGwL)
7
I've been through that too, with my wife. You have all my sympathy.
Alzheimers is what doctors are left with, after all other causes of dementia are ruled out.
Those tests are important because some of the other causes can be treated. There are some medications that can slow - but not stop - the progress of AD.
Maybe you've been there already, but be prepared for mental changes, such as panic or paranoia - but always remember it's the disease talking, not your mother.
I strongly recommend keeping busy and keeping outside contacts - that's what saved my remaining scrap of
sanity!
I also commend the newsgroup alt.support.alzheimers;
there you can get advice from other caregivers, or even just vent if that's what you feel like...
Posted by: Terry at February 08, 2006 08:10 AM (YawHj)
8
Vinnie, sorry to hear about your mother, I can't imagine how difficult that must be for you.
It might be selfish, but I hope you don't quit, as I certainly enjoy reading you. Maybe staying in the game will help you maintain, as writing does help keep the world open.
You and she are in my prayers, and I wish you both all the best.
Mack
Posted by: Mack at February 08, 2006 08:50 AM (BxOPi)
9
Sorry to hear about your mom Vinnie. The inevitibility of these things is always sobering. I do think blogging will be a good outlet for you.. and on a selfish not, we'd all miss your posts! Take care.
Posted by: Richard at February 08, 2006 08:51 AM (W8EsU)
10
Vinnie - So sorry to hear of your troubles. My thoughts and prayers go out to your mom, you and your family.
God bless you.
Dinah
Posted by: Dinah Lord at February 08, 2006 09:28 AM (y6n8O)
11
Stay strong, Vinnie. Our prayers are with you and your family.
Posted by: Graeme at February 08, 2006 10:09 AM (Zwihh)
12
Vinnie, we'll be thinking about you and praying for a recovery for your mother. I am basically in the same situation, except that my sister does the majority of the care. Keep in touch!
Posted by: jesusland joe at February 08, 2006 10:14 AM (rUyw4)
13
So sorry to hear about your mother. I am sure I speak for everyone when I say that we'd hate to lose you here, but I would certainly understand. Be strong, and if we can do anything for you just ask.
Posted by: Wine-aholic at February 08, 2006 10:21 AM (ILLgW)
14
I'm so sorry to hear about your mother. I really enjoy your postings and hope that you don't stop. My prayers are with you.
Posted by: Heroic Dreamer at February 08, 2006 10:24 AM (aH6Zf)
15
Vinnie,
Sorry to hear this. My toughts are for you and your mother.
Sincerly,
- Max
Posted by: Max at February 08, 2006 10:31 AM (aPkwd)
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I have seen this process too. It was my grandfather and it was tough watching it and tough watching my father have to deal with it.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you Vinnie.
Posted by: Marcus Aurelius at February 08, 2006 11:32 AM (zdcna)
17
Sending out the prayer mojo to you and your mother, Vin.
Posted by: Son Of The Godfather at February 08, 2006 11:37 AM (5BuXD)
18
As we say in the South, bless your heart.
Posted by: Improbulus Maximus at February 08, 2006 11:40 AM (0yYS2)
19
You didn't state your Mother's age, but she most likely has Alzheimers. I have much experience with the disease, but of the early onset variety. I've lost my Mother, brother and two sisters to the disease. All were affected in their late thirties. My one sister, who is still alive, is 45 years old. She is in mid-stage of the disease. It is heartbreaking to see her deteriorate at such a young age.
I wish you the best with your Mother. Please contact me if I can offer any assistance or advice.
Posted by: Pat A at February 08, 2006 09:44 PM (NkgIw)
Posted by: RepJ at February 10, 2006 02:23 PM (wZLWV)
21
BS"D wishing you success in dealing with it.
Posted by: yonason at February 11, 2006 10:06 PM (tO9V8)
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