The approving smile of my Dad the day I had to tie his shoelaces will always be a bittersweet memory.
I cannot forget the first time I tied my shoelaces on my own – I could have been three and a half – and Daddy smiled approvingly, proud of my latest childhood accomplishment. But four decades later, dementia robbed him of the ability to tie his own shoelaces. That he could still recognise me, warmed my heart with gratitude and I will forever cherish this memory.
Like this dying ornamental palm tree that was still bearing fruit, my Dad continued to be the gentle, loving, nurturing parent even when Alzheimer’s Disease ravaged his mind and body. I named this painting ‘Father Nurture’ as a tribute to my Dad, to keep the memory of his life and legacy alive. Right before his casket was closed, I tucked a laminated miniature copy of the painting in the pocket of his jacket, right over his heart.
The weekend of December 10, 2021 marks the 97th anniversary of my Dad’s birth. When he slept his way into eternity nearly eight years ago, I had no idea that one day, I would be involved in advocating for dementia prevention to become a national healthcare priority in Canada.
If you live in Canada, please, please, please, please sign petition e3698.
Please sign petition e3698 that recommends:
- Reduction of preventable diagnoses through health promotion and disease prevention services
- Deceleration of risks and symptoms through a standardized national cognitive assessment test
- Reversal of symptoms in persons with mild cognitive impairment through access to clinical trials financed through public/private sector funding
Glory Matters 