There is much that could be said about Peter. How he faces each day with courage, wisdom, humor and insight. Peter isn't challenged by dementia...he challenges IT, and when Peter posted a letter on my message board, he became an inspiration to us all. If you have any questions about dementia, or if you too, are challenged with Frontal Lobe Dementia, I encourge you to write this wonderful man. Peter is not only a hero...he is a shining light!
When I think about Renae the words that come to mind are...determination, conviction, and a heart of solid gold. She is a rare one, this Renae, because she has been diagnosed with EOAD. (Early On-set Alzheimer's Disease). To many that would have been enough to stop their life in it's tracks...to mourn what was being taken away. But not Renae. Like Peter and Laura, Renae is challenging this disease by reaching out to others. She wants to share her experiences and help people realize that you CAN live with a dementia. There is a gentleness about her that can heal wounded hearts, a mind that offers wisdom and hope, and a heart that is filled with love. Again, if you want someone to talk to about EOAD, write Renae ASAP....there's a whole new world just waiting for you.
At a very early age, Jan (Mina) was diagnosed with having Early On-Set Alzheimer's Disease. As she writes..."With an EOAD diagnosis it becomes hard for people to understand - I still look the same, and for the most part can engage in conversations and still maintain my social skills - there is no outward, visible signs"... So speaks from the heart of someone who lives everyday with a disease called Alzheimer's. BUT, does that diagnosis diminsh Mina? NO! In fact, she is one of the most remarkable people I know. Her courage, insights and inspiring journal entries just shows the tenacity of the human spirit. She's another one who is an inspiration and a wonderful person to talk with. Let her show you there is more to life than labels by reaching out to this angel on the internet. And be sure to stop by her website it's incredible!
At the age of 55, Mary was diagnosed with having Early-Onset Alzheimer's Disease. For the past several years, Mary has been taking Aricept and has seen an incredible amount of improvement. Today, Mary strives to help others because as she writes..."I felt so alone. I didn't think anyone was like me". Mary also has a wonderful website where you can read about her story, share her on-going journal, or just get to know her a little better. So you can either drop her a note here, or click on the underlined website above and visit with her there.
Chip, 54, was diagnosed with EOAD back in 1997. He also has a mom with AD and spends several afternoons a week helping her so she can remain at home. Since meeting Chip, I've learned a lot about him. He's up-beat, compassionate, insightful and caring. And, he has also just started a journal. This is another earthbound angel and one who is anxious to spead his wings and share his thoughts. I urge you to not only write him, but come get to know him through his writings. Just click on the underlined..."My Journey".
At the age of 52, Carole is an angel who has vascular dementia (more commonly called Multi-Infarct or simply "MID"). Since this began, Carole has found all sorts of coping tricks and is more than willing to share what she's learned. This is another angel with a very compassionate and loving heart, so if you've been diagnosed with MID, this is the angel who'll be there for you!
Laura is one of the many people who are living with Early On-Set Alzheimer's. She began noticing the symptoms some time ago and so she's used to dealing with the challenges that come every day. If you have questions concerning what to look for (in regards to symptoms), what types of doctors to contact etc., this is the lady to talk to. Or if you happen to being experiencing memory loss yourself, please contact her, she can help! By the way, Laura has a very helpful website, so please stop by and pay her a visit...you'll be glad you did!
Would you like to become an email angel? If so, drop me a note and let me know. Just tell me who you are and the type of people you'd like to help.