My first travel since dx!

[KathyB]

I finally made it to Florida to visit my family! Unfortunately, my trip had to be planned quickly because my dad fell and broke his hip. At 85, he is pretty far into Alzheimer's, but he and mom (82) are still able to be together at an assisted living center. Dad was a "rocket scientist" and head of the nuclear propulsions branch at NASA's Lewis Research Center in Cleveland. It is truly amazing how Alzheimer's has reduced his brain to mush. We are so blessed he has remained in the 5% who stay sweet and kind with the disease! So I'm here in FL to lift spirits! Haha! Little do they know they are lifting mine! Just want to shout out for American Airlines (one of my sisters works for them and arranged my trip) who made the journey effortless for me. Even though on stand-by and a non-revenue passenger, I had wheelchair escorts and priority seating. If you have ever flown thru Miami, you will know the wheelchair was a lifesaver! One other special moment for me was actually (and finally!) making the decision to book the reservation and go! Indecisiveness has been plaguing me to the point of exhaustion! When I decided to go, my husband let out a great sigh of relief, too! Amen! So after a good night's sleep, I'm off to pick up mom and head to mass. Then to see my dad in the hospital. And most importantly, to try and continue feeling normal for a while! Woooohooo!

[Dryhill]

Hope all goes well and that your dad's hip mends soon. Try and enjoy your outing as much as possible as a change of scenery often makes one feel better.

Jim

[pberggren1]

Kathy, I'm glad to that you are able to visit your dad. Outwardly it may seem that Alzheimer's reduces ones brain capacity or thinking ability or memory. But in fact that is jus the part that we see. The inner workings are just as good as before Alzheimers. It is just the part that we see that can bring us hurt. Your dad will cherish every moment you can spend with him and fully appreciate what you do for him. I hope you have an awesome time down there. Offer as many Masses as you can for your parents at this age. They are worth more now than when they are dead.

[mishb]

Well done Kathy, that was one big step to make, however you need to be down there as much for yourself as for your mum and dad.

I hope you make the most of your time together before having to head back home.

Take care and enjoy the warmth for a while

[Sangye]

I'm happy that you've done it, Kathy. Take care of yourself and enjoy your visit.