The Diary of An Alzheimer's Caregiver

Appreciate the good, laugh at the crazy, and deal with the rest!

  • Home
  • About T.D.A.C.
  • Blog
    • CAREGIVING
      • AWARENESS
      • RESOURCES
      • STORIES
      • TIPS
    • ALZHEIMER’S
      • AWARENESS
      • RESOURCES
      • STORIES
      • TIPS
    • OUR LIFE
      • MOM’S STORIES
      • MY STORIES
      • RA
      • SOCIAL AWARENESS ISSUES
    • YOUR STORIES
      • GUEST BLOGGERS
    • PRODUCTS & REVIEWS
      • BOOKS
      • PRODUCTS
      • SERVICES
  • Contact
  • Resource Library
Home » Blog » CAREGIVING » RESOURCES » ALZHEIMER’S IN PASSING

August 25, 2014 By Rena McDaniel 110 Comments

ALZHEIMER’S IN PASSING

Alzheimers in passing https://thediaryofanalzheimerscaregiver.com/2014/08/alzheimers-passing/

ALZHEIMER’S IN PASSING

IS ALZHEIMER’S HEREDITARY?

WOULD YOU WANT TO KNOW IF YOU HAD IT?

JUST QUESTIONS TODAY AND NO ANSWERS!

Pt. 10 The conclusion of the caregiver series “How We Got Here” will return next Monday, September 1, 2014

I guess my nightmare and my daughter’s pregnancy has been on my mind a lot yesterday and today. Sorry for the melancholy posts, but sometimes it’s not enough to just Appreciate the good, you have to fight for it too!

Much has been said lately about Alzheimer’s being hereditary and about new tests possible to see if you will get Alzheimer’s in the future.

Is this the legacy that I will pass on to my daughter like a well worn photo album or and old piece of furniture? Should I include it in my will? Maybe add a caution “Contents Under Pressure”.

How do I prevent that? That’s what I want to know. How do I keep from being a burden? How do I keep from possibly passing this horrible disease on to her? This sweet, shy girl (normally, until pregnancy hormones took over anyway) with my looks and her daddy’s big heart. My baby who will soon give birth to her own 2 babies. Is this the gift that keeps on giving?

By giving birth, to this daughter that I wanted so bad, have I sentenced her to a life of uncertainty, but certainly horrible pain?

Please, someone tell me no. I find myself looking at her as she is glowing in pregnancy with those 2 precious little babies.The ones that she wished into life and then moved Heaven and Earth to get. I want to tell her I’m sorry NOW, for the untold pain that I will possibly lay on her shoulders at some point in my life. That I’m sorry if I am ever to become a burden that she will eventually have to deal with.

For you see, I know what this life is and I wouldn’t wish it on my worst enemy let alone my child, the mirror image of myself. This child that I would gladly give my life for.

Would you want to know if you were going to get Alzheimer’s in the future?

Remember to:

Appreciate the good, laugh at the crazy, and deal with the rest.

I love you momma!

20Shares

Related

Filed Under: RESOURCES, RESOURCES, STORIES, STORIES Tagged With: Alzheimer's Characteristics, Alzheimer's progress, behaviors, challenges

About Rena McDaniel

I'm a recovering Alzheimer's Caregiver, a former loving daughter, a current wife, mom, and grandma who remembers all too clearly what it is like on the front lines of Alz Caregiving. I provide real advice, pro tips, or excellent tools from my own experiences and other experts I find along the way. A community of caregivers supporting each other!

« I FOUND MY ALZHEIMER’S VOICE!
A YEAR WITH ALZHEIMER’S »

Comments

  1. Considerer says

    August 25, 2014 at 7:27 am

    I think I would want to know, just so I could be prepared. Additionally, I’d do something with it like Vikki Claflin is doing with Parkinson’s, and write my experiences to share and raise awareness.

    Reply
    • Rena McDaniel says

      August 25, 2014 at 7:33 am

      That’s true Lizzie and that’s what I try to do regarding Alzheimer’s and Feltys syndrome but would you make different choices regarding having children vs. not?

      Reply
  2. Robin (Masshole Mommy) says

    August 25, 2014 at 7:41 am

    I don’t know if I would want to know if it was hereditary. It sounds like a terrible disease and one that is really hard to prepare for.

    Reply
    • Rena McDaniel says

      August 25, 2014 at 8:25 am

      I wonder simply because it is hereditary. Will I automatically pass it on to my children or will they be safe. Will they be caregivers or need one.

      Reply
  3. Liz Mays says

    August 25, 2014 at 8:25 am

    I think I’d want to know if I was going to get it. I don’t know what I’d do with the information, but somehow I feel like I’d prepare as much as I could.

    Reply
    • Rena McDaniel says

      August 25, 2014 at 8:27 am

      I feel like being prepared is half the battle. When I think about how much time we spent in the dark. We could have been learning and preparing.

      Reply
  4. Cathy Chester says

    August 25, 2014 at 8:34 am

    You are a strong and caring woman with so much love and frustration in your life with your own worries for your mom and daughter. My prayers are with all of you, always.

    Reply
    • Rena McDaniel says

      August 25, 2014 at 11:34 am

      Likewise Cathy I know this is not a journey I make alone. I believe we share this long walk! You also have my deepest admiration and my prayers!

      Reply
  5. Carol Cassara says

    August 25, 2014 at 8:53 am

    The problem is there is no way to do anything about it yet, so knowing is a big weight that can’t be relieved. My father had it, the only one in his family. So every time I can’t find a word (yesterday it was hyperbole) I panic a bit. Especially when my 85 year old friend lost a word for the VERY FIRST TIME last WEEK. sigh.

    Reply
    • Rena McDaniel says

      August 25, 2014 at 11:36 am

      I have the same panicking problem. If I misplace something or forget something else it automatically causes butterflies.

      Reply
  6. Jennifer Williams says

    August 25, 2014 at 9:09 am

    Alzheimers runs in our family as well. I am always concerned about putting the burden of my care onto my children as well as whether they will have to suffer. All we can do is try to enjoy the time we have. She will have two beautiful babies soon to help take your mind off all the things you worry about.

    Reply
    • Rena McDaniel says

      August 25, 2014 at 11:36 am

      Well said Jennifer, well said.

      Reply
  7. paula schuck says

    August 25, 2014 at 10:39 am

    My Mom passed away 1 year ago after a brief battle with ALZ and a pneumonia that got out of control. She passed away on May 5th and I am grieving still that loss. I send hugs to you because this is a rough road. I know it is hereditary. I don;t want to know if that is how I will end my years on earth. I don’t want to know. Simple as that. I choose to live now and seize every day and if I knew that information I would simply worry more and feel it overshadowed all of the happy moments in the immediate present.

    Reply
    • Rena McDaniel says

      August 25, 2014 at 11:37 am

      I believe I quite agree with you Paula. I am so sorry for the loss of your mother. My prayers are with you and your family.

      Reply
  8. Kristen from The Road to Domestication says

    August 25, 2014 at 10:56 am

    Goodness, I never even gave a thought to if Alzheimers was hereditary or not…but I can see why it would concern you!

    Reply
    • Rena McDaniel says

      August 25, 2014 at 11:40 am

      I can’t say I overly thought about it much. After I had my really bad nightmare I thought more about it and I guess with my daughter carrying her babies the thought has come into the forefront but there is nothing much to do about it. Thanks Kristen.

      Reply
  9. Kathy Radigan says

    August 25, 2014 at 11:53 am

    What a tough question to have to ponder. Please know my thoughts are with you, your daughter and your precious grandbabies!!

    My grandmother died of Alzheimer’s and I think the worst part of it as her granddaughter was seeing her before the disease fully took a hold of her. It was heartbreaking to see her come back to the world for a moment and know she knew what was happening.

    Personally, I would not want to know. I might feel differently if there was something I could actually do to prevent it, but since there is not, no.

    Reply
    • Rena McDaniel says

      August 26, 2014 at 9:41 am

      Thank you Kathy. That is something that happens often in our house that look of fear and desperation for that split second when she realizes what is going on. Then another moment the look is gone to replaced by that glazed over look. Breaks my heart everytime!

      Reply
  10. Lesley Stevens says

    August 25, 2014 at 12:35 pm

    I’m not sure if I would want to know or not, that’s a tough question to answer at the moment. My thoughts are with you.

    Reply
    • Rena McDaniel says

      August 26, 2014 at 9:42 am

      I change my mind on any given day Lesley!

      Reply
  11. Sarah Bailey says

    August 25, 2014 at 12:36 pm

    What a hard questions – my Gran had Alzheimer’s we lost her early this year, I just hope in time we can find out more about it awful illness.

    Reply
    • Rena McDaniel says

      August 26, 2014 at 9:43 am

      I am so sorry to hear about your grandmother Sarah (that’s also my daughter’s name). My prayers are with you and your family. I hope you are right and maybe one day there will be a cure.

      Reply
  12. Alexandria says

    August 25, 2014 at 12:53 pm

    My grandma i think showing early stages of alzheimers. so this is a great article!

    Reply
    • Rena McDaniel says

      August 26, 2014 at 9:44 am

      So glad to help out Alexandria! That’s why I am here. I hope you take a look around and if you have any questions let me know. If you want to talk more privately feel free to email me at rm29303@gmail.com

      Reply
  13. Karen D. Austin says

    August 25, 2014 at 1:17 pm

    Babies are love! I am just thrilled for you. I very much enjoy Still Here by Ram Dass because he encourages me to live in the now. I tend to review hurtful things from the past and worry too much about the future. His book looks at the power of now for older adults, and I always get a feeling of calm when I read from it. Hugs to you and your beautiful, growing family. So exciting!

    Reply
    • Rena McDaniel says

      August 26, 2014 at 9:45 am

      I haven’t read this yet but am definitely taking note of it. Sounds like something I should check out. Thank you Karen.

      Reply
  14. Terry says

    August 25, 2014 at 1:59 pm

    Yes!!! for sure I would want to know if I was a candidate for Alzheimers…. Then, I would be trying to find any way I could to slow it down or possibly stop it.

    Reply
    • Rena McDaniel says

      August 26, 2014 at 9:48 am

      That’s a great outlook Terry! Thanks for sharing your thoughts!

      Reply
  15. Heather says

    August 25, 2014 at 2:50 pm

    I think it would be helpful to know so that we can start treating it or take other measures early on.

    Reply
    • Rena McDaniel says

      August 26, 2014 at 9:48 am

      Some days I totally agree with you Heather! Thank you so much!

      Reply
  16. Lana says

    August 25, 2014 at 4:01 pm

    I think I would want to know – for many reasons. But don’t beat yourself up about your daughter and future grandchildren. Everything about parenthood is an unknown, and there are always things that can go wrong, but many, many things that go right. We just have to move forward and hope and pray for the best!

    Reply
    • Rena McDaniel says

      August 26, 2014 at 9:50 am

      Thank you Lana for your understanding. You are absolutely right! There are so many things that can happen in life worrying about that seems pail in comparison.

      Reply
  17. Chrissy says

    August 25, 2014 at 4:28 pm

    I’d want to know if it was hereditary to prepare myself, it’s so scary.

    Reply
    • Rena McDaniel says

      August 26, 2014 at 9:50 am

      It is definitely that Chrissy! Thanks for sharing your opinion!

      Reply
  18. Alice Chase says

    August 25, 2014 at 4:40 pm

    I wouldn’t want to know. I wouldn’t want an urgency to make each day something extra special. I would just want to enjoy each moment at a relaxed pace and appreciate it for what it is.

    Reply
    • Rena McDaniel says

      August 26, 2014 at 9:51 am

      This is so true of alot of things Alice. We all need to take a page from your book! Thanks for sharing!

      Reply
  19. krystalskitsch says

    August 25, 2014 at 5:27 pm

    I never thought about if it was genetic or not. That is a question to ponder.

    Reply
    • Rena McDaniel says

      August 26, 2014 at 9:52 am

      I think about this sometimes other times there is just to much other stuff to worry about. Thanks Krystal.

      Reply
  20. Lois Alter Mark says

    August 25, 2014 at 5:33 pm

    Such a hard question. If knowing could help you prevent it or prepare for it somehow, that would be one thing. But to know and not be able to do anything about it? I’m not sure.

    Reply
    • Rena McDaniel says

      August 26, 2014 at 9:53 am

      That would also be my dilemma. I have enough struggles in the here and now I don’t want to have to worry about the struggles of tomorrow if I couldn’t stop them from coming anyway.

      Reply
  21. kate says

    August 25, 2014 at 5:50 pm

    im not sure how knowing could help at the moment being there is no cure for it.and that weight of a life you have wtinessed with your mum might just be tto much and make you own life worse off.even bring on the symtoms sooner!!and other illness that would bring different but similar devasteding effect of depression and mental illness etc.would this be any better.
    but to be prepared.mayne the thing to do right now it to be prepared anyway.if we cant act or know whether we wiull get such illness could we all just get dam prepared anyway.we need to know about these illness whether we get it or not.there are so many others suffering we can help eacthoer by learning more to understand more.than in ourselves wiht housesing future wills and accounts to just get things sorted incase.that way the life we do live will be more peaceful anyway.
    to live with the knoweldge ill die like my family did with the desease i think would make me a terrible mum in some ways.id hurt my child by needing to love her too much,show her too much,tell her too much haha.
    though living with the weight of caring.i dont actually think sometimes i could be more prepared becasue when i fear tomorrow it hurts more.where as if i get myself calm in the now and think ok this is here i am here this is the now this is it right now me and her and my family this is the life we have i can get on with it more.i can fight more becasue im here now.where as if im trying to get through tomorrows fears aswell it just get too much.
    your daguthr loves you.like with cancer or depression or ohter illness’s we dont exepect some of thre sheer pain that will come.but in our lives together there has been sheer joy too right.remember those moments you and ur daguihter have had and savour any more to come.dont fear lsing that or being a burden.love finds a way to be stronger than anything.she woint hate you or feel why didnyt you stop this or why do this to me.they will be fleeting thoughts of days but they wont be the real ones.the ones below the surface of love and enduring strength to look eacthother.
    your doing such a brave wonderful thing everyday.its not fair at all but look at you your an inspiration a wonderful kind caring giver.you can do this.you can.

    Reply
  22. kate says

    August 25, 2014 at 5:51 pm

    p.s if ive made no snese or offended take it away.there was NONE MEANT ABOVE.my thought just sometimes dont transport to words espceically when i have such emotional feeliong in there too.xx

    Reply
    • Rena McDaniel says

      August 26, 2014 at 9:55 am

      Kate, you definitely didn’t offend me and I can tell you are very passionate about this. The things you said actually make perfect sense and I want to thank you for sharing your thoughts with me.

      Reply
  23. Tough Cookie Mommy says

    August 25, 2014 at 7:55 pm

    This is some very important information. Many people are not aware how different conditions could have genetic correlations.

    Reply
    • Rena McDaniel says

      August 26, 2014 at 9:58 am

      It is a very scary thought. In my family alone it could be the Alzheimer’s Disease from mom, Felty’s Syndrome from me, Heart Disease from my father who died at 46 or my husband’s family who has battled cancer many times and lost.

      Reply
  24. Nolie says

    August 25, 2014 at 8:00 pm

    If I knew there was a chance I would want to know. I rather be prepared than worry about if it could happen to me.

    Reply
    • Rena McDaniel says

      August 26, 2014 at 9:59 am

      I have decided to prepare as much as possible to protect my family but not let it consume me or my thoughts. Thanks so much for sharing yours with me Nolie! I always find you insights very interesting.

      Reply
  25. Haralee says

    August 25, 2014 at 8:03 pm

    Hopefully by the time the babies are adults there will be some clear science on the disease. It is not a sure thing that your gene pool will have it. Of course it is scary. My Mother, 92, did not recognize my sister yesterday but her 95 year old sister and my sister went out to lunch and shopping. Who knows!

    Reply
    • Rena McDaniel says

      August 26, 2014 at 10:00 am

      This is the outlook I need to carry Haralee! It’s amazing how different people even in the same families can be. Thank you for sharing this with me, it is actually a very big help!

      Reply
  26. Jeanine @ sixtimemommy.com says

    August 25, 2014 at 8:07 pm

    I would always want to know. To prepare myself, and my children. It’s really important to stay informed!

    Reply
    • Rena McDaniel says

      August 26, 2014 at 10:02 am

      I agree Jeanine it is very important to stay informed but I also think there is a way to be over-informed. This sounds confusing I know. This gives me a terrific idea for a related post. THanks for sharing your ideas with me!

      Reply
  27. Liv says

    August 25, 2014 at 9:11 pm

    The whole idea of it scares me to death. I don’t know if I could hear knowing.

    Reply
    • Rena McDaniel says

      August 26, 2014 at 10:03 am

      This is how I feel MOST days Liv! THanks for sharing our ideas!

      Reply
  28. Tami says

    August 25, 2014 at 9:16 pm

    I don’t think I’d want to know now. However, if I had children, I would definitely want to know for them.

    Reply
    • Rena McDaniel says

      August 26, 2014 at 10:04 am

      This is my concern. Not really how it will affect me per say but how it would affect my children in the long term whether from the disease itself or from caregiving either one. Thanks Tami!

      Reply
  29. April says

    August 25, 2014 at 10:39 pm

    I don’t know if I’d want to know. Part of me would spend so much time worrying about it, I won’t enjoy the now. I already struggle enjoying the now. They say that music is helping with time/space understanding. Like how we reminisce about high school when we hear a great song from our day. I wonder how much is true.

    Reply
    • Rena McDaniel says

      August 26, 2014 at 10:06 am

      This is a very good question April! There are definitely songs that take me back to those days even if they are way long past. I wonder if that would be something useful to work on here. Thank you so much April you have given me alot to think about!

      Reply
  30. Theresa says

    August 25, 2014 at 11:58 pm

    I would want to know. I would want to try to prepare the best I could before it got too bad.

    Reply
    • Rena McDaniel says

      August 26, 2014 at 10:07 am

      Good points Theresa thank you so much for sharing your ideas.

      Reply
  31. LifeAsAConvert says

    August 26, 2014 at 12:10 am

    I think I would also want to know so I could be prepared. Though, I suppose there isn’t really a way to prepare for something like that.

    Reply
    • Rena McDaniel says

      August 26, 2014 at 10:08 am

      There are ways to prepare I would think although it would be relative to care, financials, POA that sort of preparedness. This gives me another great post idea. Thank you so much.

      Reply
  32. Pam says

    August 26, 2014 at 1:15 am

    Beautifully said. I will have to put some thought into this question. Not really sure how I feel about it but I am thinking I would want to know. I am the kind of person that likes to be prepared.

    Reply
    • Rena McDaniel says

      August 26, 2014 at 10:10 am

      I am too Pam. We always go by the 6 P’s (I actually heard it on a TV show but we have adopted it in our house) Proper Preparedness Prevents Piss Poor Performance. I usually add a 7 since I say this over and over to my husband whose name happens to be Patrick.

      Reply
  33. Ben - Gentlebim says

    August 26, 2014 at 3:29 am

    I always love your posts, and I’m always so grateful that you’re willing to share your journey. I had a great grandfather with this horrible disease, so I know how difficult it is on the people around them. Stay strong!

    Reply
    • Rena McDaniel says

      August 26, 2014 at 10:11 am

      Why thank you very much Ben! I love to hear from people who like my posts. I hope you will return often!

      Reply
  34. Carmen Perez says

    August 26, 2014 at 9:30 am

    I don’t think I would want to know. Life is so hard at times, and you might end up getting some other horrible disease before this one, so why worry beforehand?

    Reply
    • Rena McDaniel says

      August 26, 2014 at 10:13 am

      This is something very important to realize and I hadn’t actually thought about it before. Alzheimer’s isn’t the only ugly, destructive and terrible disease. There will definitely be another blog post discussing this. Thanks for sharing you ideas Carmen!

      Reply
  35. Sharon Greenthal says

    August 26, 2014 at 9:42 am

    Unless there could be some way to prevent it from happening, I don’t think I’d want to know. However, that doesn’t mean I wouldn’t want to prepare and plan in case it did happen.

    Reply
    • Rena McDaniel says

      August 26, 2014 at 10:14 am

      I think that is the trick Sharon! Don’t overly worry but always be prepared come what may! Thanks so much!

      Reply
  36. Rena McDaniel says

    August 26, 2014 at 9:56 am

    I go back and forth depending on the day I am having. Some days I would and some I definitely wouldn’t.

    Reply
  37. Karen @BakingInATornado says

    August 26, 2014 at 10:19 am

    I’m not sure whether I’d want to know or not. The truth is that if there were something I could do about it I’d be more inclined to want to know. But if there were nothing I could do about it, it would just be a heavy weight.

    Reply
    • Rena McDaniel says

      August 26, 2014 at 3:32 pm

      I feel this way most of the time Karen most of the time I am okay with it, then I look at those ultrasound pics of the little ones coming and then I start to worry a little. That’s my nature.

      Reply
  38. Melanie S. says

    August 26, 2014 at 10:55 am

    I would definitely want to know because it would give me a chance to make certain plans.

    Reply
    • Rena McDaniel says

      August 26, 2014 at 3:33 pm

      There is that. This idea has pros and cons on both sides. Thanks for sharing Melanie.

      Reply
  39. Melissa Smith says

    August 26, 2014 at 11:26 am

    I would want to know so that I could somehow trap memories before it sets in. But at the same time, knowing what’s coming is hard too.

    Reply
    • Rena McDaniel says

      August 26, 2014 at 3:34 pm

      That’s an interesting idea Melissa the idea of “trapping” memories for later use. Might be a post there! Thanks for sharing your thoughts Melissa!

      Reply
  40. AlexandraFunFit says

    August 26, 2014 at 11:58 am

    I would want to know so I could make my own plans and not leave that burden to my boys.

    Reply
    • Rena McDaniel says

      August 26, 2014 at 3:35 pm

      That’s the scary part, what will happen to our children if they are left to deal with this burden. Thanks Alexandra!

      Reply
  41. Rosey says

    August 26, 2014 at 1:32 pm

    I guess I would want to know. Most things I would say no too (as far as future telling) but that one, I think I would. Not sure what I could do by knowing, but I’d still want to, I think.

    Reply
    • Rena McDaniel says

      August 26, 2014 at 3:36 pm

      I go one way one day and the other the next day. Thanks for sharing Rosey!

      Reply
  42. Risa says

    August 26, 2014 at 3:26 pm

    I lost a dear friend much too soon to this terrible disease. Her husband has become very active in organizations that raise money for research. In fact, we’ll be walking in San Francisco next month. He is concerned about his two daughters–the same way you are concerned about your daughter. I saw my friend go through the stages of knowing, and then not knowing, what her condition was. If there was a way to predict, I’d want to know. I understand that not everyone would. My friend began writing down some of her stories, but never got very far. Let’s hope that a cure will be possible some day.

    Reply
    • Rena McDaniel says

      August 26, 2014 at 3:39 pm

      I am so sorry for your loss Risa. It is horrible watching the decline of our loved ones. It sounds like your friends husband is a remarkable man. I would really like to chat with him about his stories sometimes and maybe have him as a guest writer. He has gone alot further into this nightmare than I have. I am also walking in the “Walk to End Alzheimer’s” on Oct. 18th in Greenville, SC and will shortly be hitting everyone up for donations to this worthy cause. If you read this you can email me at rm29303@gmail.com Thanks for sharing here today!

      Reply
  43. bodynsoil says

    August 26, 2014 at 7:51 pm

    I’m not sure I would want to know. Why spend my remaining years worrying that there is a potential for alzhimers; then die of something completely different, with or without a sound mind.

    Reply
    • Rena McDaniel says

      August 27, 2014 at 9:09 am

      This is a very good answer! You’re so right! It is something I hadn’t thought about before reading this. People who have commented on this have given me lots to think about! Thanks for sharing!

      Reply
  44. Amber NElson says

    August 26, 2014 at 8:15 pm

    I would hope that it isn’t hereditary. That is just scary.

    Reply
    • Rena McDaniel says

      August 27, 2014 at 9:10 am

      All signs say it is hereditary Amber and you’re so right it is very scary! Thanks for your comments Amber!

      Reply
  45. Janie Emaus says

    August 26, 2014 at 9:22 pm

    My dad had this horrible disease. And every time I forget something simple, I thing it’s coming for me, too. But I’m not ready to get tested.

    Reply
    • Rena McDaniel says

      August 27, 2014 at 9:11 am

      That sounds like me Janie! I freak out a little each time I forget something. It’s a very scary feeling. Thanks for sharing your comments Janie!

      Reply
  46. Melissa says

    August 26, 2014 at 9:22 pm

    I wouldnt want to know. I would want to just enjoy life for everything is is NOW, not what it wont be later.

    Reply
    • Rena McDaniel says

      August 27, 2014 at 9:11 am

      That’s a terrific outlook Melissa! Thanks for commenting!

      Reply
  47. Denise Gabbard says

    August 26, 2014 at 10:51 pm

    We never thought twice about this decision…and my mother-in-law had Alzheimer’s disease. In fact, she was in the late stages when our kids were little.

    It is a horrible disease, and you could see how truly scared she was all the time. She had been a nurse, and to see how quickly she deteriorated was awful.

    I know that there is a possibility that my husband can inherit this from her– and that my children can as well. However, we cannot live our lives worried about what might never happen.

    Reply
    • Rena McDaniel says

      August 27, 2014 at 9:12 am

      So true Denise! Thanks so much for your input!

      Reply
  48. Jen - Life With Levi says

    August 26, 2014 at 11:36 pm

    My grandmother struggled with Alzheimers for years. It’s a terrible thing to experience.

    Reply
    • Rena McDaniel says

      August 27, 2014 at 9:13 am

      So true Jen! It saddens me to watch the way my mother is deteriorating. Thanks so much for your comments!

      Reply
  49. Elayna Fernandez ~ The Positive MOM says

    August 26, 2014 at 11:44 pm

    I think it is good to prepare for “the unknown” although I never thought I would live this long and I’m just appreciating the “extra” time I’m enjoying with my family.

    Reply
    • Rena McDaniel says

      August 27, 2014 at 9:14 am

      I am in the same boat as you Elayna! I was not expected to live in 2011 so any extra days I get are all a bonus in my book! Thanks for the reminder!

      Reply
  50. Chene @Prototype Mama says

    August 27, 2014 at 1:48 am

    I would really want to know even if it is a scary one.

    Reply
    • Rena McDaniel says

      August 27, 2014 at 9:15 am

      The comments on this one are back and forth some do, some don’t. Thanks so much for your perspective Chene!

      Reply
  51. Aisha Kristine Chong says

    August 27, 2014 at 2:56 am

    to be honest.. it’s scary to know but I probably want to be prepared so.. the early I know, the better.

    Reply
    • Rena McDaniel says

      August 27, 2014 at 9:16 am

      That has been a resounding idea. It’s running about half and half right now. Some do and some don’t. Thanks Aisha!

      Reply
  52. Amanda McMahon says

    August 27, 2014 at 6:37 am

    As this is a neuro degenerative issue, I cannot help but think of what part neurotoxins play in this. Aluminum, etc.

    Reply
    • Rena McDaniel says

      August 27, 2014 at 9:17 am

      Great question Amanda! I would love to know the answer to that myself. Thanks for your comments Amanda!

      Reply
  53. Kimba says

    August 27, 2014 at 8:48 am

    I think I would want to know, so I could prepare as much as possible – though I know that’s difficult.

    Reply
    • Rena McDaniel says

      August 27, 2014 at 9:18 am

      Stay tuned to for a future post on how exactly that can be accomplish Kimba! The comments in this post have given me many ideas. THanks for sharing yours!

      Reply
  54. Le-an Lai Angeles Lacaba says

    August 27, 2014 at 9:20 pm

    I could just imagine how scary it would be to have something bad in the family that has the possibility of being passed down to your kid. The more you know, the better. But sometimes, the truth hurts.

    Reply
    • Rena McDaniel says

      August 31, 2014 at 11:55 am

      It is at times but most of time you are living day to day and you’re so busy that you don’t even think about it. This post was written a couple of weeks ago after a particularly hard few days and I was feeling kind of hopeless I guess. It doesn’t last that’s not my style.

      Reply
  55. Marcia @ Menopausal Mother says

    August 29, 2014 at 9:07 pm

    I totally understand your fear. With all the ice bucket challenges going on, it has brought to the forefront the fact that ALS runs in my family—on both my mom and my dad’s side. I live in fear of having it and passing it down to my kids.

    Reply
    • Rena McDaniel says

      August 31, 2014 at 12:10 pm

      That is very scary Marcia and as mothers we want to protect our children from everything and then to have to think we may pass them something like this is devastating.

      Reply
  56. Amanda Ripsam says

    August 29, 2014 at 11:36 pm

    My father and three siblings have 22q11.2 deletion syndrome, My daughter and myself also have it. Which is why I blog for awareness. Bloging for causes is a great way to get the word out there.

    Reply
    • Rena McDaniel says

      August 31, 2014 at 12:12 pm

      You are so right Amanda that is what started this blog as well. When I first became a caregiver I thought that Alzheimer’s was just losing your memory. Turns out that is the least of the problems associated with it. Thanks so much for commenting and I want to hear more about this disease it is something totally new to me. I will keep your family in my prayers!

      Reply

Have a question? Just want to talk? I love comments! Cancel reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Are You Looking For Something Specific

We’re Thrilled To Have Been Awarded As One Of The Top Alzheimer’s Blogs of 2020!

Best Alzheimer's and Dementia Blog Award, 2020 by eMediHealth

☆☆☆☆☆ By eMediHealth ☆☆☆☆☆

Let’s Connect!

  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • LinkedIn
  • Pinterest
  • Twitter
Find me there!

Healing & Condolence Gift Package From A HEALING SPIRIT.ORG!

Tags

Alzheimer's Alzheimer's Awareness Alzheimer's Characteristics Alzheimer's progress Alzheimer's research Alzheimer's resources Alzheimer's statistics Alzheimer's Stories Alzheimer's tips book review Caregiver Caregiver awareness caregiver fails caregiver health Caregiver resources caregivers Caregiver survival Caregiver tips Caregiver tools Caregiver traits caregiving Caregiving awareness Caregiving resources caregiving tips dementia dementia tips Erica Silva Family guest posts holidays life lessons Lydia Chan midlife Midlife Women my stories our life product review RA relationships Sally Phillips senior abuse Senioradvice.com seniors service review sponsored post

Contributor to:

Some posts on this website may include affiliate links.

These links will be signaled by the presence of (*) before or immediately. What this means is that you buy the product or service that denotes the (*) I will earn a small commission which helps keep TDAC up and running. The commission will in no way affect your pricing.

Information on this website may be copied for personal use only. No part of this website may be reproduced, stored, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, scanning, or otherwise, except as permitted under Section 107 or 108 of the 1976 United States Copyright Act, without the prior written permission of the author. Requests to the author and publisher for permission should be addressed to the following email: Rena@theblogging@911.com

wanderingwebdesigner

"All who wander are not lost" We're exploring this great country one campsite/hotel at a time! Our bags are always packed & ready!

Rena McDaniel
#wanderer #traveling #travelers #travelbug #travel #wanderer #traveling #travelers #travelbug #travelholic #travelgram #travelinggram
#nationalparks #nps #instatravel #explore #vanlife
#travelphotography #exploring #explorer #wanderlust #doyoutravel #goexplore #travelmore
#lovetotravel #wonderfulplaces #roamtheplanet #travellifestyle #traveladdict
#wanderer #traveling #travelers #travelbug #travel #wanderer #traveling #travelers #travelbug #travelholic #travelgram #travelinggram
#nationalparks #nps #instatravel #explore #vanlife
#travelphotography #exploring #explorer #wanderlust #doyoutravel #goexplore #travelmore
#lovetotravel #wonderfulplaces #roamtheplanet #travellifestyle #traveladdict
#wanderer #traveling #travelers #travelbug #travel #wanderer #traveling #travelers #travelbug #travelholic #travelgram #travelinggram
#nationalparks #nps #instatravel #explore #vanlife
#travelphotography #exploring #explorer #wanderlust #doyoutravel #goexplore #travelmore
#lovetotravel #wonderfulplaces #roamtheplanet #travellifestyle #traveladdict
#wanderer #traveling #travelers #travelbug #travel #wanderer #traveling #travelers #travelbug #travelholic #travelgram #travelinggram
#nationalparks #nps #instatravel #explore #vanlife
#travelphotography #exploring #explorer #wanderlust #doyoutravel #goexplore #travelmore
#lovetotravel #wonderfulplaces #roamtheplanet #travellifestyle #traveladdict
#wanderer #traveling #travelers #travelbug #travel #wanderer #traveling #travelers #travelbug #travelholic #travelgram #travelinggram
#nationalparks #nps #instatravel #explore #vanlife
#travelphotography #exploring #explorer #wanderlust #doyoutravel #goexplore #travelmore
#lovetotravel #wonderfulplaces #roamtheplanet #travellifestyle #traveladdict
#wanderer #traveling #travelers #travelbug #travel #wanderer #traveling #travelers #travelbug #travelholic #travelgram #travelinggram
#nationalparks #nps #instatravel #explore #vanlife
#travelphotography #exploring #explorer #wanderlust #doyoutravel #goexplore #travelmore
#lovetotravel #wonderfulplaces #roamtheplanet #travellifestyle #traveladdict
Load More... Follow on Instagram
© 2021 The Diary of an Alzheimer's Caregiver / Designed & Maintained by TECHNOLOGY-THERAPIST
We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you okay with it.OkNoRead more