Candi "Alzheimer's"

Photography by Randy Bacon

Candi's mom and dad, Sue and Don

Gone for a walkabout, that’s what my dad would say in jest when I would ask him "Where you going, Papa?" Alzheimers has not taken that sense of humor away yet. In the beginning, my Mom and I would joke around at his forgetfulness and say he probably is getting Alzheimer's. Not so funny now!

Speaking of mom, I have always admired her more than anybody in this world. Such an overcomer. First female supervisor in the Pot rooms at Alcoa Aluminum in Wenatchee, Wa. Then, I watched her survive the death of her only son when he was 32...she is now watching the man she loves and admires slip away. I tell her that God chose her to be with him, a special assignment if you will. God knew she could more than handle it.

Candi with her mom, Sue

Mom is so patent; the care and time she takes with him in explaining everything over and over again. Each task that he has forgotten she is there to show him and act like this is nothing and he can do it. Oh she gets frustrated, make no mistake. But she is very protective over him. Their interaction together is so touching and Dad just gets funnier! Although as I write this, today is a sad day-- he forgot where I came from and asked Mom who I belonged to, and if I had any siblings. This will get worse, I know, but nothing really braces you for that loss. When he does pass, I will try to remember that he is going for a walkabout, and I will see him on the other side whole and perfect!