I realize that much of my conversation may have a negative tone to it and want to present the other side for a change. It’s not that something especially good has happened to us in the last day or two but that overall we have much for which we are grateful. Perhaps I was prompted by a conversation I had with our banker the other day. I initiated steps to become power of attorney for Kate’s financial accounts and explained to the banker that she has AD. Last week I spoke with him for the first time in 6 months or more. He asked how we were doing. I told him that all-in-all we were doing quite well. Then I explained that one of the benefits of knowing early about her AD enabled us to place more emphasis on our relationship and making the most of the time we have together. Even with the natural frustrations that I experience with Kate’s inability to do or remember things, I have become decidedly more patient and understanding. That has made all the difference in our relationship. Even though we have had a strong relationship in the past, it is at its strongest now.
Beyond this, we are not under the financial pressures that might prevent our doing many of the things we enjoy. In addition, her diagnosis came at a time when I am able to take time away from my business and invest more personal time Kate.
When we consider everything, we are incredibly blessed, and we recognize it.