Lessons learned at Dementia U.

Sweetie making new friends again.

As last night came to an end and this morning is beginning, I have to think about what we are going through. Me and Sweetie are moving together and at some point moving apart. Those of you who are just beginning this journey may not understand what I'm saying and those who are further along this path, know what I'm talking about.

My back has been bothering me lately, so I thought it would be a good idea to get a massage. While we were doing our walk around, we stopped at a massage parlor and went in for back massage. Even though she was in the room with me, and in plane sight, she couldn't stand me not paying attention to her. About 15 minutes into the massage, she took my hand and I could just feel the terror coming from her as she held my hand. Experience told me that if we didn't get out of there, a full blown panic attack was on its way. I told the masseuses we had to leave, and he seemed to understand. I have a 15 minutes credit, which will be about the time limit for Sweetie's patience. Back feels great. 

Everyday is a learning experience being taught at Dementia U. Right now I think I'm about to receive my Bachelor's Degree in awareness of time. The time of the massage, and the room was dark to add to a relaxing atmosphere may have been contributors to her panic. These are the lessons that when learned are not easily forgotten. Another thing about attending Dementia U, classes are in session 24/7, and there isn't any curriculum that will lead to a graduation ceremony. Just continuous learning and before you know it, you're an instructor, helping and leading new students. 

As long as I have to care for Sweetie, Dementia U will be in- session. We had, outside of the massage parlor instance, a good day. She was up earlier then normal and we had a good breakfast, got her dressed and cleaned up for daycare. Daycare was going to have a new person there to replace one that had to quit. She wasn't there and found out she didn't show up. So, they are short handed, and  because she wanders, she takes more care. Maybe because we had a good morning before taking her to Daycare she had a good day there. That was a Easter Egg for me to get that report. She still as a session of panic after I have her in the car. She is still so attached to me and so relieved to be back together that she will break down and cry. Her relief is so apparent, I can't miss it. It is getting better for her, which makes it better for me. 

Sun's up, and that can mean only one thing, my Driver will be here any minute. So, I better finish up and get myself ready for another day, driving down the Road to Dementia Town. How does He do it? Keeping the Shinny Side so polished? I don't know, He just does. So, here we go, cool sunglasses on, window down, driving down the road keeping the Shinny Side Up. Who knows, maybe we'll see you as we drive together keeping our Shinny Sides Up. God Bless.