Wednesday, February 26, 2014

Caring and coping...one moment at a time


One Moment at a Time
Linda O'Connell

   "Pops, my stepdad once flew stunt planes upside down and in directions as dizzying and confusing as his life had become. Dementia had stolen much of his short term memory."  
 
My story details the heartache that comes with "losing" not one but two parents at the same time. In the end, I conclude that lullabies are not just for babies, and we should take one day at a time.
 
I will most likely do a book signing later this year and donate proceeds to the local Alzheimer's chapter.


This story is near and dear to my heart. I submitted another one which was not selected, about my dear friend diagnosed with dementia who is slowly slipping again. These diseases are devastating.

I also got news that my friend, Carol, was recently diagnosed with cancer. Prayers appreciated as she goes in for surgery next Friday. 

14 comments:

Bookie said...

Sorry you have had more bad news. I think the world might be on tilt. Another person in my life died today. Just so many leaving the earth right now...and another winter storm for this weekend for us.

Unknown said...

I'm so glad Chicken Soup published a book of Alzheimer's caregiving stories. So many people are devastated by this disease, and yet there is great beauty in moments where we hold our beloveds closer than ever in our hearts. I can tell your story is beautiful already by just these few words. I will be at your booksigning.

Sioux Roslawski said...

Linda--I will keep your friend Carol in my thoughts and prayers.

And you are so right about losing a parent when they have Alzheimer's. They might still be alive, but they leaving us...bit by bit.

River said...

This makes me kind of glad that my parents both died before their minds did. It must be so much worse to see them like this.

Shelly said...

Both my in-laws are in varying stages of dementia. There is just nothing easy about it. Kudos to you for donating the proceeds! And I will keep your friend in my prayers.

Beth M. Wood said...

So sorry to hear about your friend Linda. I will keep her in my thoughts and prayers. So glad your story is in this book - it's honest and beautifully told. XO

Susan said...

Hi Linda. I think it's so sad to see people fall victims to Alzheimers. It's so very devastating.

I'm sure your story is wonderful.

Also was sad about news of your friend. Most of us probably know someone affected by that doggone cancer.

Take care. Susan

Susan Sundwall said...

One of my dearest friends is in care now for dementia. By all accounts she is a cheerful 5 yr. old. Miss her a lot. The book is much needed. Will say a prayer for your friend, Carol who bears the same name as my friend in care. Blessings, Linda.

Susan J. Reinhardt said...

Oh, Linda, it's so hard when you see a loved one slipping away bit by bit. I know your story will resonate with many people.



Connie said...

These diseases are indeed devastating. Prayers for your friend Carol here.

Cathy C. Hall said...

Yes, my mom-in-law suffered so much with Alzheimer's (she called it The Altimers-still makes me smile to think of that).

Will keep your friend in prayer.

Tammy said...

Prayers for Carol, and I'm sorry to hear your other friend is slipping again. Sounds like this book will be a welcome comfort to caregivers and anyone who's lived through the dark times we all go through with older loved ones. Congratulations yet again, Linda.

Lynn said...

Congrats and sorry about your friend. Sending love...

Unknown said...

Prayers all around, Linda. Congrats on another wonderful story -- and let me know when and where you will sign this one so I can attend.