The Finish Line

October 13, 1999 - Craig's 55th birthday.  The children had a birthday party for him.  I'm very appreciative of our children and that they took the initiative to make this happen.  They also know that this will probably be the last.  It was a special day - a hard day - but a wonderful day to see Craig smile and happy and somewhat coherent.  I helped him get ready for bed that night and tucked him in.  I cried all the way home.  He is my best friend - my soul mate - the love of my life.

December 4, 1998 - I spend the day at the care center.  They called me early morning (3 am) to tell me they thought he had a seizure.  I had him in a wheelchair today.  He couldn't walk by himself.  It breaks your heart to see him deteriorate.

December 18, 1998 - Today was our 33rd wedding anniversary.  I stayed close to Craig today.  He didn't move from the couch much and I just sat next to him rubbing his head and neck and telling him how wonderful he was and how much he was loved.  I hope he felt that love.

January 18, 1999 - I spent the day at the center with Craig.  He appeared to be struggling and was unsteady.  He kept telling me how much he loved me.  Craig knew me that night and I believe he wanted to instill it in my mind and in my heart that before he left that I was loved and to remember it always.  I know I always will.  What a memorable evening that was.  I didn't realize then but these would be the last words he would speak except a few mutterings.  I feel so loved and so very blessed for the wonderful times we had.  I cried all the way home and thanked my Heavenly Father for this wonderful person I was so blessed to be loved by and married to - my best friend.  I am so very grateful.

January 21, 1999 - The best part of a journey is returning home.  Craig completed his journey and returned home to his Heavenly Father at 6:40 pm.  He ran the race and crossed the finish line.  Craig can now watch us and guide us as we move into a new phase of life until we are reunited again.  This was a peaceful day.  

It is comforting to me that Judy ends her post regarding the loss of her husband with "This was a peaceful day."  That definitely gives me hope.  If she can feel peace in such a situation, I can surely feel hope that I can feel calm during difficult times too.  I love my mom Judy.  I'm so proud of her and appreciative of the tender care she took of my dad during his demise.  I'm also proud of her for her continued efforts to support others who are currently coping with Alzheimer's.  If you, or someone you know, needs help dealing with Alzheimer's, go to www.alz.org