From one who has Alzheimers, and yes it is hard
Just for a moment, let me share from my heart.
Please forgive me for the things that I say.
If I were well, I would not be this way.
Although I can't tell you, I'm so glad you are here.
But I know you are hurting, cause I see your tears.
I wish I could tell you, what you mean to me.
Could we please go back to what used to be?
But no, we are here, and I'm a stranger it seems.
Though I might wish otherwise, it's more than a dream.
Please, just remember, when I curse and yell,
it's not really me that you see, just my shell.
In spite of the difficult days we'll go through,
this one thing is true...my Dear...I love you.

Copyright © 1997 Jerry Ham
Used with permission of the author.

Jerry and his wife are both nurses and they
are a team in taking care of his mother who
who has Alzheimer's. Jerry frequently shares
his poetry on the Alzheimer list, bringing tears
to all our eyes.

Email Jerry at: wordman@asaccess.com