So this week there were a few unexpected blessings that put a big smile on my face. First John's brother and his wife came over with a full dinner. They brought absolutely everything needed and made us a delicious meal and spent the evening with us. That was a great way to start the work week!
Then John's high school alma mater had a formal fund raiser evening. One of his friends hosts a table each year, and the guys love to get together, sans wives, for the evening. John's friends worked together to figure out a carpool for John and took him to the dinner. He had a great time. And truth be told, I had a really nice evening enjoying a bottle of wine with a friend whose life is rather similar to mine. We were able to talk about the toll of care giving, our fears, and share some good laughs.
Another highlight - Easter Seals moved to a new location that a friend of ours built for them. John was a little confused about the move and the changes had him confused. But the new place is huge and bright and perfect for their group. One of the workers asked to meet with me. She explained the kinds of things that John is involved with there, and told me she is submitting a grant to get some financial assistance for us! That is absolutely huge because I spend a lot of time worrying about how I can pay for his current care, let alone his future care. Easter Seals is $85 per day, so they think they might be able to get a couple days per week covered for us. I am thrilled! And VERY thankful.
Also this week Danielle and I attended a lecture at UCI about detecting Alzheimer's a decade before symptoms hit. It was really interesting to learn about the direction science is heading. But at the conclusion of her talk, the Dr said "The most important thing we can do is help people enjoy their lives." That was my prime take away from the evening. The most important thing I can do is help John and my mom enjoy their lives as best they can.
Of course I have to share a negative event of the week. Jordan was in a car accident. It was the other driver's fault and Jordan's car tipped up on it's side but then dropped back on it's tires. She's sore but otherwise is OK. Weirdly, the other driver refused to speak to Jordan and exchange information. She did call the police and Danielle went to help Jordan. We think her car is probably totaled, but we hope not. The next day we went to get Jordan's rental car, and tried to get her stuff out of her car at the tow yard (the police wouldn't let her get into her car because it was in the middle of the street). All of this was very confusing for John and I had to explain it to him again and again. He doesn't remember that Jordan was in a car accident, but it's familiar if I explain it to him again.
My mom was really tired yesterday. After I stuffed her full of snacks, she said she wanted to go to her room and sleep. She was already in her room, and already in bed. So I gave her a kiss and left her to get some sleep.
John said something this morning that struck me - "I feel like I'm lost in the forest." What an extremely difficult way to live day in and day out.
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