Dad …
Thank You for your guidance even though I wasn’t aware of the responsibility taken on by a Parent. Teenage years were all about me and although you tried to guide me I was oblivious to your efforts, and in the mind of a young teen thought you didn’t know much, I knew it all. Little did I realize as I was growing into a young woman, so were the values, the countless talks and even the punishments, becoming part of who I was to be.
Days turned into years, I married, raised children and faced many of the issues that you faced raising me. It seems like I woke up one day and the man I called Dad now was looking for help and understanding. You lived life to the fullest everyday … playing hockey, hunting, fishing, golfing, pool tournaments and never needed or asked for help from anyone.
Alzheimer’s … I never thought about this disease, never knew what it was, but I do now. Slowly it is taking away the man I call Dad. Each day you struggle with tasks, each day you attempt to keep your pride and although there are many times your thoughts cannot be completed in a sentence, you smile and apologize for the fact that you can’t tell me what you want to. You don’t have to, I know when I look into your eyes or at times when you take my hand and say I love you, I know.
You weren’t perfect, none of us are, you made mistakes, all of us do, but your love, patience, kindness and understanding has come full circle and without hesitation I give it back to you. You did a good job Dad; you raised a daughter who has the highest respect, love, and admiration for you. I will always be there for you, always listen, always try to understand, always be patient, always love you.
Your Daughter,
Suzanne
I wrote this for my Dad who has Alzheimer’s.
As this disease progresses it will erase all memories of his life, including me.
June 2016
