I spent Valentine’s Day with my sweetheart. We sat down at the table for lunch and Glen bowed his head to pray. Glen said, “Oh, thank you, thank you, Heavenly Father!” The dining room went silent. The care associates stopped what they were doing. Glen continued on, “Thank you, thank you!” We all joined in, “Amen!” Everyone’s eyes were dewy. It was such a beautiful moment! This doesn’t happen every day, but when it does, it’s powerful to see a man who may not remember much, remember to sincerely thank his creator.
Glen and I have been walking with God and relying on Him since 1981 when we got engaged. I remember that December in Arkansas when we dedicated ourselves to the Lord by being baptized together in the river! Thankfully, we had some warm blankets and the heat running in a pickup truck to jump into!
It comforts me to know that even in the late stages of Alzheimer’s disease, Glen is still communing with God, relying on Him and giving Him glory.
Even though Glen has lost most of his ability to communicate, he can still say short phrases like “I love you!” and “We are so blessed!” He is content and has a thankful heart. Who among us can ask for more? I consider myself blessed to have a husband of faith!
We shouldn’t assume that people with Alzheimer’s do not have moments of lucidity or spirituality. They are still who they are, deep inside, even when we don’t see it.
Take time to listen to them–pray with them!