Our Collective Story

Amy Gautam Amy Gautam

Loss

I work with people experiencing different forms of dementia. I see them losing abilities - memory, language, physical. .It can be so sad, but I try to support them and draw out any positive aspects and opportunities to help them enjoy their lives.

Anonymous, Professional treating people with Alzheimer’s

Bethesda, MD

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Amy Gautam Amy Gautam

Fun

That was the last word my sister said to me, after being at our family Christmas singalong. It had been many months since she'd been able to speak, but her enjoyment shone in her eyes and while leaving she did turn to me and say "fun." We can all be encouraged when fun is possible for those with Alzheimer's.

Anonymous, Family member

Bethesda, MD

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Amy Gautam Amy Gautam

Hope

Dr. Taryn Fortune, Professional treating people with Alzheimer’s

Silver Spring, MD

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Amy Gautam Amy Gautam

Life-changing

Dementia changes the life and the relationships of the person suffering with the disease as well as their caregivers and family members.

Anonymous, Family member

Baltimore, MD

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Amy Gautam Amy Gautam

Sadness

My older brother recently was diagnosed--he's in the early stages, in his mid-70s. I'm anticipating slowly losing him. I hope the sadness turns to acceptance. I also volunteer with hospice patients with dementia. I hope to show my brother the same tolerance I give my patients--sometimes that grace and patience is harder to give for family members who witness their loved-one's decline.

Anonymous, Family member, Volunteer helping people living with Alzheimer's

Silver Spring, MD

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Amy Gautam Amy Gautam

Tragic

Alzheimer's is tragic for not only the patient, but all of the family and friends that support the patient. It is all encompassing and heartbreaking for those involved.

Lindy Paris, Family member

Marlborough, NH

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Amy Gautam Amy Gautam

Unfair

Mom thoroughly enjoyed her life as a mother, grandmother, friend, educator, and world traveler. She understood how to live in the moment before mindfulness became popular. Now she can’t retrieve her lifetime collection of moments. Having a disease that forces one to live only in the present seems entirely different from choosing that state, especially at a time when memories are a huge part of appreciating a life well lived.

Amy G., Family member

Bethesda, MD

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