FINAL COUNTDOWN

8 DAYS LEFT!!!!
That is all.


I have been reading a lot of Alz articles lately. Mostly about the biology behind it, the chemistry of the brain, genetic coding, etc. Talking with Daupher (Ben's sister, Jen) tonight I was reminded again of what I think about the genetic test that is very available to everyone these days. Yes, there is a test. HOWEVER, it only tells you that you MAY be a candidate to POSSIBLY get Alz. The test only works if BOTH of your parents had early onset alz. Which means before the age of 50.

I am all about preparing. I like to know what the deal is, the bottom line, what have you....but I don't really see the point with this one. I already know that there is a possibility for dementia/alz for me. I just assume this since Mom and Grama have had issues.  I am going to prepare whether I test or not. I think the test would bring me a ton unnecessary stress. So, there's that.

Mom is stable. Ups and down. No major change. She has had more bad days lately, but those bad days are also combined with lots of good times spent with friends. She seems to be able to pull herself out of her panicky moments if needed. If I don't answer the phone, I find that if I call back 30 minutes later....all is well in Arlene Alz Land. Often she doesn't answer and when I do finally talk to her I find she has been on the porch hangin' with the crew. Of course, sometimes when she can't reach me she calls Lynn. But, not always.

The nurses have said that she is doing well, despite crying more often lately. They also tell me it is normal that once a resident is initially settled there is another period of stress (she is at 2 months), then at about 3-4 months they really settle in and are much more calm. They have been right about everything else, so I am hopeful this time as well.

I am doing good. Ups and downs for me too. Mostly, I am on the up. My mood is generally better these days and I am not having a ton of self-inflicted stress. School is good (I really can't complain) and almost over. Sad my Seniors are leaving. Even though I have a lot to take care of this summer, I am looking forward to some time with Ben, my much missed friends and Mom.

I still think Alzheimer's is stupid.