Facing Alzheimers Together
by MaryGrace Patterson
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Rated "G" by the Author.
Life is not easy when husband and wife both have Alzheimers. Every 72 seconds someone gets Alzheimers.Its progressing at an alarming rate. There is also a genetic factor involved within some families
I was diagnoised with Alzheimers in May 2007. It was a devastating blow to me and my family. I was on an emotional rollar coaster trying to cope with memory loss, new medications
and facing the gradual decline of my mental and physical capabilities.
What a difference a year has made!
My whole outlook on life has changed. I went through the process of anger , denial, frustration, depression. With the help of medications, the disease has been slowed down, and I can remember things much better. I still forget a few things , but I accept the fact that its normal to do so and I don't go to pieces like I once did.
My husband ,Richard, has been having memory problems. He stated he felt like there were blank spaces in his brain. He was having many of the same symptoms I had the previous year.
At the end of August, 2008, his Doctor ordered a PET scan .
The results showed that he has Alzheimers, plus another form of Dementia. The news was overpowering!
He has been quiet and does not discuss it much. He does not want to take medication to help slow it down and had refused too, until a few weeks ago. He has finally started taking Exelon 1.5mg once a day. He needs to take it twice daily , plus start on Namenda. The doseage increases monthly until a certain dose amount is reached. I'm trying not to push him too much. I just don't understand why he doesn't want to help himself !
We're a married couple who have been through so much together. We've always been open and able to talk about things and now he's shutting me out!
I realize he needs time to adjust and cope with the diagnosis. He has Lupus and a metal aortic valve which was put in ,in 1984, plus a few other medical problems. He states Alzheimers won't kill him , something else will.
That might be true , one never knows what's ahead, but that's no reason not to take his medication. I feel he's not accepting it, and perhaps is withdrawing so he doesn't have to face it.
It's real and it affects both him and me. He's placing more of a burden on me and I worry about him. The changes in him are suttle, but I see a small decline in cognative thoughts. He also gets angry quicker, then it subsides.
Our lives are changing more and more, and I feel helpless to stop what's happeneing!
He will be seeing his Doctor soon, perhaps she can talk with him and help in some way.
Please keep us in your prayers.
A FOOT NOTE:
My husband saw the Doctor on Nov 5. She talked with him and he is now using the Exelon patch. He will start on Namenda in Dec. Miracles do happen! Thanks for all your prayers and support!
God bless all of you! MaryGrace
Saturday, November 22, 2008
Thursday, July 10, 2008
To Readers of MaryGrace
Dear Readers, Thank you for reading MaryGrace. Readers are encouraged to make comments. This blog is a conversation, and the more postings and readers who share by making comments the better the blog is for everyone. So please hit the comment button at the end of each post and tell us about yourself, make comments and share information. Thanks, hank330
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
Alzheimers -- Helpful website links
These sites offer a lot of good information about Alzheimers, including research, clinical trails, updates, tests medications and current findings. Many give other web sites for self help.
www.alz.org offers a wide variety
of info, support, medications and
general interest articles
AlzheimersNews.ahafinfo.org
gives info about Alzh, news updates
from the Mayo Clinic and other places
www.nia.nih.gov/Alzheimers
ADEAR provides information on
age related cognative changes
and neurodegenerative diseases
www.nih.gov
Includes 27 institutes
and centers conducting& supporting
research, causes treatments ,cures
wwwhsfolate.com
A must read aritcle
about the possibility of reducing
the risk of getting Alzh. by 55%
AlzheimersWeekly.com
One of the best sites to gain info
and updates
www.Epic4 health.com
A recent study shows 60% lower risk
of Alzh withOmega 3 diet.
MaryGrace-Hank330.blogspot.com
A personal sharing of my life
and living with Alzh., also
updates on medications and vitamins
WWW.simplesite.com/mother
An online journal by Mary Canada,
who has lived with Alzh for 2&1/2 yrs
www.alz.org offers a wide variety
of info, support, medications and
general interest articles
AlzheimersNews.ahafinfo.org
gives info about Alzh, news updates
from the Mayo Clinic and other places
www.nia.nih.gov/Alzheimers
ADEAR provides information on
age related cognative changes
and neurodegenerative diseases
www.nih.gov
Includes 27 institutes
and centers conducting& supporting
research, causes treatments ,cures
wwwhsfolate.com
A must read aritcle
about the possibility of reducing
the risk of getting Alzh. by 55%
AlzheimersWeekly.com
One of the best sites to gain info
and updates
www.Epic4 health.com
A recent study shows 60% lower risk
of Alzh withOmega 3 diet.
MaryGrace-Hank330.blogspot.com
A personal sharing of my life
and living with Alzh., also
updates on medications and vitamins
WWW.simplesite.com/mother
An online journal by Mary Canada,
who has lived with Alzh for 2&1/2 yrs
Sunday, July 6, 2008
July 5,2008 Update. Good news
A personal sharing of what I have been through this last year. Some of you Know I have Alzheimers ,as you have read my writings on the den .
Over a year ago, I was diagnoised with Alzheimers. I had been having memory lapses, fragmented thoughts, misplacing things. I'd forget words in the middle of a sentence. It was hard to seperate things in my mind. Someone had to be in the car when I drove, so I wouldn't get lost. It was a time of turmoil, hoplessness and frustration, as I tried to come to terms with the diagnosis and facing the eventuality of my death in a most unpleasent way.
I had seen my grandpa and uncle die from it. I had cared for people with it and watched as they were slowly robbed of their mind and ability to function. I saw familes torn apart, as their loved ones stared unknowingly at them, succumbing in increments to the fatal disease.
This is my fate, reality!! I had to face it. I couldn't run away from what was happening to me.
With the help of Exelon and Namenda, folate and hurpazine, plus many vitamins, the disease has been slowed down.
They have not found a cure yet. Studies are being conducted world wide. Some break throughs have been made, but much more needs to be done to stop this devasting illness.
Alzheimers is now the sixth leading cause of death and the numbers are increasing at an alarming rate. Over five and a half million people have it, and its attacking people in their thirties, forties, ect. Its no longer a disease of the elderly.
Each day I live has become more precious! I value life more and look at things differently than I used to.
I marvel at the ability to remember , to be able to talk normally, share my writings and feeling with others.
My Lord has been gracious in the extra time and gifts he has given me. I am true ly grateful!
Over a year ago, I was diagnoised with Alzheimers. I had been having memory lapses, fragmented thoughts, misplacing things. I'd forget words in the middle of a sentence. It was hard to seperate things in my mind. Someone had to be in the car when I drove, so I wouldn't get lost. It was a time of turmoil, hoplessness and frustration, as I tried to come to terms with the diagnosis and facing the eventuality of my death in a most unpleasent way.
I had seen my grandpa and uncle die from it. I had cared for people with it and watched as they were slowly robbed of their mind and ability to function. I saw familes torn apart, as their loved ones stared unknowingly at them, succumbing in increments to the fatal disease.
This is my fate, reality!! I had to face it. I couldn't run away from what was happening to me.
With the help of Exelon and Namenda, folate and hurpazine, plus many vitamins, the disease has been slowed down.
They have not found a cure yet. Studies are being conducted world wide. Some break throughs have been made, but much more needs to be done to stop this devasting illness.
Alzheimers is now the sixth leading cause of death and the numbers are increasing at an alarming rate. Over five and a half million people have it, and its attacking people in their thirties, forties, ect. Its no longer a disease of the elderly.
Each day I live has become more precious! I value life more and look at things differently than I used to.
I marvel at the ability to remember , to be able to talk normally, share my writings and feeling with others.
My Lord has been gracious in the extra time and gifts he has given me. I am true ly grateful!
Monday, May 26, 2008
May 24, 2008
I am feeling good. the medication is really helping . I just read an article about a chinese club moss. Its hurpizine.. I am taking 50 mcg twice daily.. I am trying to now take 50 mcg more . They say 200 is needed. I have a low tolerance , so if i can get to 150 daily , i will be happy.Some studies have shown it helps delay Alzh for possibly up to 12 yrs. People who take it have better memory function. They mentioned some other things too, but gave no names of anything. I know because I have done a lot of research.. I am qite excited about this. I guess time will tell. I have been writing a lot lately and feel good that I amable to doso. I hope all is well with you...Mary
Sunday, May 25, 2008
Thoughts and feelings
I know from personal expierence , that if I can remain calm , and keep my mind busy with Good interesting things , I do better. Once in a while my thoughts get a little scattered, especially if I am under a lot of pressure. The medication definately helps and IS needed to delay the onslought of this disease. I am in a very good place , compared to last year...Last May I had just found out I had this . I was scared , angry , confused and trying to cope . The worst was not being able to control my thoughts. I think it was a combination of the shock of finding out I had this, trying to control my thinking , and the feelings of being inadaquate and out of control. I had bad mood swings. One minute I 'd be ok , then in a flash , I'd be lashing out at some one . I realize now , it was all a part of this. I couldn't adjust , remember. I couldn't stop blank spaces from coming into my brain when I was trying to talk . I was afraid to go places alone , as sometimes I got lost and didn't know which way to go. It was overpowering, shattering to my life . It affected me and those I loved , as they bore the brunt of my wrath at times. I knew I was having these mood swings and told my Doctor. She put me on Prozac 10 mg. daily. It helped to stabliize me . Namenda and Exelon , helped me to return to a fairly normal existance. I looked up information on the internet about vitamins , supplements and and learned more about the disease. I talked with my doctor and began taking vitamins. It was good as I felt I was helping my self and had some input to decisions .
I wanted to turn things around and try to help others , so I began to write about Alzheimers. I have written articles about the disease, poems about my feelings am in a chat group. Now I have blog Provided by my friend, Hank. It has been a rewarding experence . I am a retired nurse . Caring for others has been a life long labor of love.. "Give and ye shall receive". That is what has happened to me. I gave and I have been blessed with the ability to write and share my expierences with others . Perhaps I will help give a better understanding by writing and sharing. I sure hope so!
If you know some one who has this , try to help them by making sure they are on Namenda plus one other drugs ,such as Arceipt , or Exelon., Reminyl. Make sure they are taking vitamins.such as B12 , Folate.. Omega 3..Read to them , provide music, walk, play cards try to be understanding , have patience, and don't argue . STIMULATE THEIR MINDS. You will never what its like to have this, until you are there facing it your self.( I pray that doesn't happen) Find compassion and gain insght about the disease by reading and talking about it with others .. Always remember to try to maintain a good happy world for your loved one who has it. They are the ones who are lost and trying to cope the best they can. They are trying desperately to maintain some sense of control and order in their mind. They are slowly ,silently being robbed of the power to do so. They are dying a little each day.
PLEASE REACH OUT.. Encourage your Doctors to LEARN more about this ,, TALK wth others who have a similar problem and let your loved one know you are there for them...God Bless....MaryGrace
I wanted to turn things around and try to help others , so I began to write about Alzheimers. I have written articles about the disease, poems about my feelings am in a chat group. Now I have blog Provided by my friend, Hank. It has been a rewarding experence . I am a retired nurse . Caring for others has been a life long labor of love.. "Give and ye shall receive". That is what has happened to me. I gave and I have been blessed with the ability to write and share my expierences with others . Perhaps I will help give a better understanding by writing and sharing. I sure hope so!
If you know some one who has this , try to help them by making sure they are on Namenda plus one other drugs ,such as Arceipt , or Exelon., Reminyl. Make sure they are taking vitamins.such as B12 , Folate.. Omega 3..Read to them , provide music, walk, play cards try to be understanding , have patience, and don't argue . STIMULATE THEIR MINDS. You will never what its like to have this, until you are there facing it your self.( I pray that doesn't happen) Find compassion and gain insght about the disease by reading and talking about it with others .. Always remember to try to maintain a good happy world for your loved one who has it. They are the ones who are lost and trying to cope the best they can. They are trying desperately to maintain some sense of control and order in their mind. They are slowly ,silently being robbed of the power to do so. They are dying a little each day.
PLEASE REACH OUT.. Encourage your Doctors to LEARN more about this ,, TALK wth others who have a similar problem and let your loved one know you are there for them...God Bless....MaryGrace
Sunday, May 4, 2008
Stages of AZH
I hope this article will bring more understanding about what a person who has Alzheimers goes through
Common changes in MILD Alzheimers
1) Loses recent memory, judgement
2)Has trouble finding words, may substitute or make them up
3)May stop talking to avoid mistakes
or keep asking repetitive questions
4)Has a shorter attention span, less motivation to stay with an activity
5)Has trouble organizing and thinking logically
6)Easily loses way going to familar places, becomes irritable
7) Takes longer to do chores, becomes upset if rushed
8)Loses or misplaces things, forgets where things go
Common changes in MODERATE Alzheimers
1)Mixes identity of people,has trouble recognizing familiar people, objects
2)Has restless repetitive movements in late afternoon or evening
3)Can't organize thoughts or follow logical explanations
4)Has trouble following written notes or directions
5)Makes up stories to fill in memory gaps
6)Poor judgement in safety issues, may wander when left alone
7)Needs help in finding toilet or bathing , selecting clothes
8)May mistake a stranger for a loved one , fogets what is private behavior
Common changes in SEVERE Alzheimers
1) Doesn't recognize self or close family
2)Speaks gibberish or is difficult to understand, becomes mean, agressive
3)May refuse to eat , chokes, or forgets to swallow
4)Loses weight,bowl, bladder control,
skin easily tears
5)May cry when touched ,forgets how to walk ,needs help to remain steady
6)May have seizures , infections,
frequent falls
7)May moan ,groan, mumble , scream
8)Sleeps more,needs total assistance in everything as they decline. Eventually death becomes salvation
Common changes in MILD Alzheimers
1) Loses recent memory, judgement
2)Has trouble finding words, may substitute or make them up
3)May stop talking to avoid mistakes
or keep asking repetitive questions
4)Has a shorter attention span, less motivation to stay with an activity
5)Has trouble organizing and thinking logically
6)Easily loses way going to familar places, becomes irritable
7) Takes longer to do chores, becomes upset if rushed
8)Loses or misplaces things, forgets where things go
Common changes in MODERATE Alzheimers
1)Mixes identity of people,has trouble recognizing familiar people, objects
2)Has restless repetitive movements in late afternoon or evening
3)Can't organize thoughts or follow logical explanations
4)Has trouble following written notes or directions
5)Makes up stories to fill in memory gaps
6)Poor judgement in safety issues, may wander when left alone
7)Needs help in finding toilet or bathing , selecting clothes
8)May mistake a stranger for a loved one , fogets what is private behavior
Common changes in SEVERE Alzheimers
1) Doesn't recognize self or close family
2)Speaks gibberish or is difficult to understand, becomes mean, agressive
3)May refuse to eat , chokes, or forgets to swallow
4)Loses weight,bowl, bladder control,
skin easily tears
5)May cry when touched ,forgets how to walk ,needs help to remain steady
6)May have seizures , infections,
frequent falls
7)May moan ,groan, mumble , scream
8)Sleeps more,needs total assistance in everything as they decline. Eventually death becomes salvation
Thursday, May 1, 2008
MaryGrace writes on medications
I have not written about medications given for Alzheimers since last year. Perhaps you might know someone you can share this information with.
Medications called cholinesterase
inhibitors are prescribed for mild to moderate Alzh.They help to delay symptoms from becoming worse for a period of time.
Research shows they help prevent the breakdown of Acetylcholine, which is a chemical in the brain thought to be important in memory and thinking. As the disease progersses , the brain produces less and less acetylcholine.
Eventually the medications loose their affect.
The medicatons, Arceipt, Exelon pill or patch and Reminyl all work in a similar way. They feel Switching from one of these drugs to another , will not produce different results, but the patient might tolerate one better than another.
Exelon dosage starts at 1.5mg twice a day, then in wks, 3mg twice a day, then in 4 to 6 weeks, 4.5mg twice a day,eventually 6mg twice a day.
I am not sure about the dosage of the new Exelon Patch.
Arceipt starts at 5mg daily ,then in wks increases to 5 mg twice daily. In 4 weeks increases to 10 mg Bid.
Reminyl starts at 4mg Bid (twice daily), in 4wks to 8 mg Bid , eventually 12mg Bid.
I could not take Arceipt . It made me very nausiated. I take Exelon 4.5mg Bid. I can't take 6 mg bid , as it makes me sick and feel odd.
Namenda is given for moderate to severe Alzh. It slows the progression of the disease so people can maintain daily functions longer.
Namenda regulates glutamate in the brain so excessive amounts are not released . The death of brain cells results when that happens.
Namenda can be given with cholinesterase inhibitors as they work differently.
Namenda doseage starts at 5 mg daily , gradually increases to 10mg Bid
I take Namenda 10 mg Bid and Exelon 4.5mg Bid, plus a lot of vitamins and prozac to help with depression and mood swings.
I will write about Vitamins and some antidepressant later on.
Mentally I am in a much better place than I was last year. My memory is good and I can take my medications without prompting. I CAN FIND MY CAR KEYS,(yeah) and I don't get lost when I'm driving.
We are all forgetful at times, thats part of being human. This disease robs a person of being able to control their thoughts, memories and completing daily activities. It takes a part of our life away, leaving us with feelings of frustration, fear,loss, hoplessness.
I dread what is ahead of me . I don't want to go through what I did last spring, summer and fall. I know its going to eventually happen again, and I can't stop it , nor can the millions of others who have it.
Medical advances, tests
and research are on going. More awareness of the disease is increasing,but the stigma still remains. MORE NEEDS TO BE DONE! I pray a cure will be found soon for all who have this. God Bless ,, MaryGrace
Medications called cholinesterase
inhibitors are prescribed for mild to moderate Alzh.They help to delay symptoms from becoming worse for a period of time.
Research shows they help prevent the breakdown of Acetylcholine, which is a chemical in the brain thought to be important in memory and thinking. As the disease progersses , the brain produces less and less acetylcholine.
Eventually the medications loose their affect.
The medicatons, Arceipt, Exelon pill or patch and Reminyl all work in a similar way. They feel Switching from one of these drugs to another , will not produce different results, but the patient might tolerate one better than another.
Exelon dosage starts at 1.5mg twice a day, then in wks, 3mg twice a day, then in 4 to 6 weeks, 4.5mg twice a day,eventually 6mg twice a day.
I am not sure about the dosage of the new Exelon Patch.
Arceipt starts at 5mg daily ,then in wks increases to 5 mg twice daily. In 4 weeks increases to 10 mg Bid.
Reminyl starts at 4mg Bid (twice daily), in 4wks to 8 mg Bid , eventually 12mg Bid.
I could not take Arceipt . It made me very nausiated. I take Exelon 4.5mg Bid. I can't take 6 mg bid , as it makes me sick and feel odd.
Namenda is given for moderate to severe Alzh. It slows the progression of the disease so people can maintain daily functions longer.
Namenda regulates glutamate in the brain so excessive amounts are not released . The death of brain cells results when that happens.
Namenda can be given with cholinesterase inhibitors as they work differently.
Namenda doseage starts at 5 mg daily , gradually increases to 10mg Bid
I take Namenda 10 mg Bid and Exelon 4.5mg Bid, plus a lot of vitamins and prozac to help with depression and mood swings.
I will write about Vitamins and some antidepressant later on.
Mentally I am in a much better place than I was last year. My memory is good and I can take my medications without prompting. I CAN FIND MY CAR KEYS,(yeah) and I don't get lost when I'm driving.
We are all forgetful at times, thats part of being human. This disease robs a person of being able to control their thoughts, memories and completing daily activities. It takes a part of our life away, leaving us with feelings of frustration, fear,loss, hoplessness.
I dread what is ahead of me . I don't want to go through what I did last spring, summer and fall. I know its going to eventually happen again, and I can't stop it , nor can the millions of others who have it.
Medical advances, tests
and research are on going. More awareness of the disease is increasing,but the stigma still remains. MORE NEEDS TO BE DONE! I pray a cure will be found soon for all who have this. God Bless ,, MaryGrace
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
The begining of the end
Sometimes thoughts can reap havoc on the inner mind. The more I read of those who have Alzheimers, the more depressed I become. I wish it hadn't happened to me!
Fellings of frustration , anger , fear, envelope me at times
Sadness,longing for the way I used to be, invade my mind
I cannot change what's happening to me, nor can my family
On ward I trudge, trying to find
strength to carry on and face what IS
I'm trying make each day count for
something
With trembling hands,I reach out for guidence from my Lord, family and friends
I have just begun this journey of :
" The Beginning of The End "
Fellings of frustration , anger , fear, envelope me at times
Sadness,longing for the way I used to be, invade my mind
I cannot change what's happening to me, nor can my family
On ward I trudge, trying to find
strength to carry on and face what IS
I'm trying make each day count for
something
With trembling hands,I reach out for guidence from my Lord, family and friends
I have just begun this journey of :
" The Beginning of The End "
Saturday, March 15, 2008
A stressful time in my life
A Stressful Time In My Life
by MaryGrace Patterson
Saturday, March 15, 2008
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
An update on our health issues and lives. Dealing with Alzheimers and Lupus
My husband has been sick about six weeks. We saw four different doctors. Multitudes of tests were done, yet they couldn't find out what was wrong with him.
The chief complaints were, abdominal upset, aching joints, fatigue,pallor, weakness, fever, nights sweats, and weight loss. They thought he might have the new strain of flu.Different kinds of antibiotics were tried with no change in his condition. He lost over twenty pounds. I felt like he was slowly fading away, and was going to die. He was afraid and felt that way also. Finally one of the Doctors ordered some special tests and the results can back positive for Lupus. He has been started on prednisone. There was an immeadiate change in his condition! He started feeling better soon after taking it. He's slowly gaining strength and is able to eat and do a few things around the house. He will be seeing a specialist for Lupus and taking a different medication as he can't stay on prednisone too long because of its side affects.
Angela Contreas (aka Angellady)has a lot of info on her den if any one is interested in finding more info about Lupus.
His illness has had a profound affect on me and my mental status.
I tried to be very strong and supportive during the sickness. It was tearing me apart inside, but I didn't let him know that.
For the last two weeks , I've noticed small lapses in my memory.
An example,, I tried three times to spell "people" and finally had to look it up in the dictionary. I forgot how to play notes on the panio,or where I put things , ect.
I'm not sure if this is the result of all the stress I was under, or if the Alzhiemers is coming back.
Knowing that the medications help for only a limited amount of time, put me under some duress! I don't want to loose control of my thoughts, have memory lapses and blanks in my brain again. I want to be in control and remember things. Its almost like living on the edge of a cliff, knowing I can fall into the sea of ineptitude at any time. It can be overpowering!!
Perhaps I'm being too hard on my self and worrying too much . I guess time will tell. I have to try to continue to take each day as it comes,and remain positve( which is sometimes hard to do). I've done every thing I can to combat this deadly disease. I pray this is just a temporay set back , and I can continue a normal existance with my loved ones a while longer. I wish this had never happened to me , but it has. Unfortunately its a sad reality, and one, I and my family have to live with and face... Please say a special prayer for us... Thankyou and God Bless !
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Reviewed by Gwendolyn Thomas Gath 3/15/2008
God bless you MaryGrace and please Lord Jesus take those illnesses away. You are such a wonderful blessing as a person please keep holding on, by trying all the measures that you can. Yes, I know Angela has a wealth of information and I have checked it. Are you on your vitamins still (B vits) there is some infomercial about some vitamin packages I will see if I can see it again and write and send it to you. As you said stress can have a lot to do with it. Just keep making your notes and keeping the dictionary handy. You are doing good just by writing about Dearie. Please keep positive and in prayers for you and husband.
Continued blessings in all ways that you need it MaryGrace.
Lots of love and hugs,
~Gwendolyn
Reviewed by Rose Rideout 3/15/2008
MaryGrace my prayers and thoughts are with you, I can understand why you would be under stress, I hope your husband is feeling better to relieve you of some upset in your life. Take care and I will pray for you both.
Newfie Hugs, Rose
by MaryGrace Patterson
Saturday, March 15, 2008
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
An update on our health issues and lives. Dealing with Alzheimers and Lupus
My husband has been sick about six weeks. We saw four different doctors. Multitudes of tests were done, yet they couldn't find out what was wrong with him.
The chief complaints were, abdominal upset, aching joints, fatigue,pallor, weakness, fever, nights sweats, and weight loss. They thought he might have the new strain of flu.Different kinds of antibiotics were tried with no change in his condition. He lost over twenty pounds. I felt like he was slowly fading away, and was going to die. He was afraid and felt that way also. Finally one of the Doctors ordered some special tests and the results can back positive for Lupus. He has been started on prednisone. There was an immeadiate change in his condition! He started feeling better soon after taking it. He's slowly gaining strength and is able to eat and do a few things around the house. He will be seeing a specialist for Lupus and taking a different medication as he can't stay on prednisone too long because of its side affects.
Angela Contreas (aka Angellady)has a lot of info on her den if any one is interested in finding more info about Lupus.
His illness has had a profound affect on me and my mental status.
I tried to be very strong and supportive during the sickness. It was tearing me apart inside, but I didn't let him know that.
For the last two weeks , I've noticed small lapses in my memory.
An example,, I tried three times to spell "people" and finally had to look it up in the dictionary. I forgot how to play notes on the panio,or where I put things , ect.
I'm not sure if this is the result of all the stress I was under, or if the Alzhiemers is coming back.
Knowing that the medications help for only a limited amount of time, put me under some duress! I don't want to loose control of my thoughts, have memory lapses and blanks in my brain again. I want to be in control and remember things. Its almost like living on the edge of a cliff, knowing I can fall into the sea of ineptitude at any time. It can be overpowering!!
Perhaps I'm being too hard on my self and worrying too much . I guess time will tell. I have to try to continue to take each day as it comes,and remain positve( which is sometimes hard to do). I've done every thing I can to combat this deadly disease. I pray this is just a temporay set back , and I can continue a normal existance with my loved ones a while longer. I wish this had never happened to me , but it has. Unfortunately its a sad reality, and one, I and my family have to live with and face... Please say a special prayer for us... Thankyou and God Bless !
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Reviewed by Gwendolyn Thomas Gath 3/15/2008
God bless you MaryGrace and please Lord Jesus take those illnesses away. You are such a wonderful blessing as a person please keep holding on, by trying all the measures that you can. Yes, I know Angela has a wealth of information and I have checked it. Are you on your vitamins still (B vits) there is some infomercial about some vitamin packages I will see if I can see it again and write and send it to you. As you said stress can have a lot to do with it. Just keep making your notes and keeping the dictionary handy. You are doing good just by writing about Dearie. Please keep positive and in prayers for you and husband.
Continued blessings in all ways that you need it MaryGrace.
Lots of love and hugs,
~Gwendolyn
Reviewed by Rose Rideout 3/15/2008
MaryGrace my prayers and thoughts are with you, I can understand why you would be under stress, I hope your husband is feeling better to relieve you of some upset in your life. Take care and I will pray for you both.
Newfie Hugs, Rose
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
A great idea
Hank330 note. This is a 2/25/08 email from MaryGrace to me. It gives insight and I believe it adds to this Blog. s/hank330
Dear Hank , God does work in mysterious ways. I have tried to become an advocate for Alzh and help others to understand the disease and some of what a person who has it goes through. Its been a very rough year for my family and me , in coming to terms with this and facing it. I've never been one to run away from a problem, so I 've tried to face it head on and do what I can to help those who have it and the caregivers too. Being a nurse has had its advantages , as I have taken care of people who had it , plus my grandpa Sam had it . I was 15 when he died , and saw what he went through, as the stages progressed. Its truley a sobering life expierence. Back then they called it senilety. (senile)... His son, my unlce Joe had it and Joes son had it. It skipped my mother , Sams daughter. but unfortunately not me. There is a genetic factor involved in my family. I 'd be gald to work with you on this project . Its worth while and something thats ongoing . There is a stigma attached to it . I find many Doctors don't do as much as they could to help the one who has it. Its basically a death sentence! I am in remission right now and savor this precious time I have control of my mind. Yes,, i'd be glad to work with yuo on this .. I do get overwhelmed easily and try to approach things as I feel i can. Right now I'm in a pretty good place mentally, tho I have had a few set backs. I try not to be too hard on myself when those occur. I used to go to pieces when I'd forget things . I handle it much better now. There are a lot of people who have this and more are getting it. Its scarey. I have a few theroies. i just signed you up to receive the Alzheimers weekly news letter. I beleive Arts wife has it . i didn't mention I had it to him. As for the poetry book . I need to put it on the back burner. I'm not ready too tackle it . My husband has been so very sick , and he's not well yet. Its ongoing with him , but at least keeps me focused on him and dealing with his illness. They still are not quite sure what it is. He's gone down hill some. I was in an Alzh chat group for a while helping care givers to be more understanding of their loved ones who are afflicted. Its hard on all concerned. Yes ,, i will work with you on this., and I guess you can go through it with me as it does progress. Its a wonderful idea.!!! I posted some on AD but I didn't want to cram it down everyones throat. My writings have been sporadic, but I have tried to make them interesting.... Mary
Dear Hank , God does work in mysterious ways. I have tried to become an advocate for Alzh and help others to understand the disease and some of what a person who has it goes through. Its been a very rough year for my family and me , in coming to terms with this and facing it. I've never been one to run away from a problem, so I 've tried to face it head on and do what I can to help those who have it and the caregivers too. Being a nurse has had its advantages , as I have taken care of people who had it , plus my grandpa Sam had it . I was 15 when he died , and saw what he went through, as the stages progressed. Its truley a sobering life expierence. Back then they called it senilety. (senile)... His son, my unlce Joe had it and Joes son had it. It skipped my mother , Sams daughter. but unfortunately not me. There is a genetic factor involved in my family. I 'd be gald to work with you on this project . Its worth while and something thats ongoing . There is a stigma attached to it . I find many Doctors don't do as much as they could to help the one who has it. Its basically a death sentence! I am in remission right now and savor this precious time I have control of my mind. Yes,, i'd be glad to work with yuo on this .. I do get overwhelmed easily and try to approach things as I feel i can. Right now I'm in a pretty good place mentally, tho I have had a few set backs. I try not to be too hard on myself when those occur. I used to go to pieces when I'd forget things . I handle it much better now. There are a lot of people who have this and more are getting it. Its scarey. I have a few theroies. i just signed you up to receive the Alzheimers weekly news letter. I beleive Arts wife has it . i didn't mention I had it to him. As for the poetry book . I need to put it on the back burner. I'm not ready too tackle it . My husband has been so very sick , and he's not well yet. Its ongoing with him , but at least keeps me focused on him and dealing with his illness. They still are not quite sure what it is. He's gone down hill some. I was in an Alzh chat group for a while helping care givers to be more understanding of their loved ones who are afflicted. Its hard on all concerned. Yes ,, i will work with you on this., and I guess you can go through it with me as it does progress. Its a wonderful idea.!!! I posted some on AD but I didn't want to cram it down everyones throat. My writings have been sporadic, but I have tried to make them interesting.... Mary
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Learning to Live With Alzheimers Disease , 2008 1/26/2008
An up date about the illness I am facing and living with.
In May 2007, I was diagnoised with Alzheimers. The devastating news drastically changed my life forever.
Trying to take medications to help slow the disease was a challange as I could not tolerate some of the well known drugs. Stopping my mood swings, memory lapses, and coming to terms with facing the disease and its affects was another problem to cope with. I lost interest in writing, hobbies and life in general. Getting through each day was great task!
Luckily I was able to take Namenda and Exelon. They have slowed the disease down and restored much of my memory. This has been a great repreive and I am thankful for it.
Prozac stopped my mood swings and depression. All these medications are not a permanent fix ,as there is no cure for this disease at the present time.
I have tried to face this disease head on and it has not been easy. We all know we're going to die eventually. When I was confronted with the diagnosis I had to accept reality, knowing full well what the eventual out come will be, if no cure is found.
Facing death is extremely hard ! I don't think one knows what its like until they have done it. Knowing my brain is slowly changing is hard to endure. Knowing nothing that can be done to stop the onslought of this disease is overpowering!
I was lucky to find out early so I could take medications and vitamins to slow its progess . I have been given a second chance for now, and I am making the most of the precious time God has given me.
Tests, advances in medicine , studies and research are being done.
This disease is out of the closet as millions are confronted with it. Attention is finally being paid to it! Hope remains eternal as long as the mind remains healthy and intact. WE ALL PRAY FOR A MIRACLE.
In May 2007, I was diagnoised with Alzheimers. The devastating news drastically changed my life forever.
Trying to take medications to help slow the disease was a challange as I could not tolerate some of the well known drugs. Stopping my mood swings, memory lapses, and coming to terms with facing the disease and its affects was another problem to cope with. I lost interest in writing, hobbies and life in general. Getting through each day was great task!
Luckily I was able to take Namenda and Exelon. They have slowed the disease down and restored much of my memory. This has been a great repreive and I am thankful for it.
Prozac stopped my mood swings and depression. All these medications are not a permanent fix ,as there is no cure for this disease at the present time.
I have tried to face this disease head on and it has not been easy. We all know we're going to die eventually. When I was confronted with the diagnosis I had to accept reality, knowing full well what the eventual out come will be, if no cure is found.
Facing death is extremely hard ! I don't think one knows what its like until they have done it. Knowing my brain is slowly changing is hard to endure. Knowing nothing that can be done to stop the onslought of this disease is overpowering!
I was lucky to find out early so I could take medications and vitamins to slow its progess . I have been given a second chance for now, and I am making the most of the precious time God has given me.
Tests, advances in medicine , studies and research are being done.
This disease is out of the closet as millions are confronted with it. Attention is finally being paid to it! Hope remains eternal as long as the mind remains healthy and intact. WE ALL PRAY FOR A MIRACLE.
Vitamins which can possible help combat Alzheimer's 7/22/2007
I have felt quite well this last week, almost like the old ME. Its been a great reprieve and I am truly thankful for feeling better at this time. I am currently taking all the vitamins listed below, plus Namenda, and Prozac. My mood swings are gone at present and my memory has improved some. I am starting on Exelon and hope I can tolerate it.
Researchers are not sure if there is a genetic link in families with Alzheimers.Studies are still being conducted. I personally believe there is, as my grandfather, uncle, and uncles son had it, and now I do.
They say FOLATE can reduce the risk of Alzheimers by 55% .
Vitamins B6 and B12 also help to reduce the amino acid homocysteine in the brain.( High levels of homoseteine nearly double the risk of Alzh.)
VITAMINS E and C are two antioxidents
that may help protect brain cells from damage.
OMEGA 3 is thought to reduce the risk of Alzh, but pregnant women and children should be careful of it.
Salmon are a good source of Omega 3 and eating Salmon once a week can lower the risk of the disease, plus eating lots of fresh fruits and vegtables.
HUPERZINE A is a plant derived supplement that is used in traditional Chinese medicine for fever and other
conditions. It might help to reduce inflamation in the brain.
There is also some speculation Asprin might help to reduce inflamation. (Not A Vitamin as u well know)
There are many websites that offer a lot of info about Alzh and many other diseases. My Doctor had told me to take all the Vitamins listed above except Huperzine A. I found out about it on the internet and have been taking it plus Asprin.
If anyone is interested I will
give them the names of web sites or they can check them out themselves.
Thankyou for your continued support and prayers. God bless...MaryGrace
Researchers are not sure if there is a genetic link in families with Alzheimers.Studies are still being conducted. I personally believe there is, as my grandfather, uncle, and uncles son had it, and now I do.
They say FOLATE can reduce the risk of Alzheimers by 55% .
Vitamins B6 and B12 also help to reduce the amino acid homocysteine in the brain.( High levels of homoseteine nearly double the risk of Alzh.)
VITAMINS E and C are two antioxidents
that may help protect brain cells from damage.
OMEGA 3 is thought to reduce the risk of Alzh, but pregnant women and children should be careful of it.
Salmon are a good source of Omega 3 and eating Salmon once a week can lower the risk of the disease, plus eating lots of fresh fruits and vegtables.
HUPERZINE A is a plant derived supplement that is used in traditional Chinese medicine for fever and other
conditions. It might help to reduce inflamation in the brain.
There is also some speculation Asprin might help to reduce inflamation. (Not A Vitamin as u well know)
There are many websites that offer a lot of info about Alzh and many other diseases. My Doctor had told me to take all the Vitamins listed above except Huperzine A. I found out about it on the internet and have been taking it plus Asprin.
If anyone is interested I will
give them the names of web sites or they can check them out themselves.
Thankyou for your continued support and prayers. God bless...MaryGrace
The Changing Patterns in My Life 6/29/2007
My life has changed radically since I received the diagnosis of Alzheimers a few months ago.
The disease overshadows almost everything in our lives. We live it, breathe it, endure it. We still do special things, it has not taken over our lives, its just become a undeniable part of it.
Sometimes when I am having a lively conversation,I forget a word or phrase.
A void(blank space) appears in my brain. I stop talking, trying to remember what I was going to say, or sometimes I just laugh and say, "what u ma call it" and continue talking. Its quite frustrating!
The inside of my body feels like its going faster. Some times I race around the house doing this and that. I have trouble slowing down. Other times I'm the same ole me!
Mood swings are part of this.
I can be happy, all of a sudden something happens and I become upset,snappy and raise my voice. I repeat the same thing over and over. My husband says I sound like a broken record. Its hard to stop whats happening. We have developed a system for him to help me stop. So far its working.
I don't sleep as long as I used to, and I am forgetting how to spell some words. I have to make sure I put items in a certain place to find them.
I enjoy writing, but sometimes I have to force my self to do it.
Maintaining a postiive attitude is hard ,but I know its best for state of mind and well being.
Almost everthing I read on the internet states this is a fatal
disease. I know this, yet I hold on to the hope that with in a few years
there will be a major breakthrough, and perhaps it will not be too late for me or others.
Medications are available to slow it down , but not stop or cure it.
There are some new clinical trails with new medications which break down
amaloids in the brain.
They have not been released by the FDA yet.There is an informative article in June AARP bulletin which tells of new break throughs. You can see this information on line if interested. I will write about some of it at a later time.
Many have illnesses which they face on a daily basis. Each copes differently but we all have the common goal of trying to live and do the best we can with what God has given us.
I ask for your prayers for the multitudes who are suffering from various illnesses, and urge you to write to your state rep. or congressman to approve more monies for research in different medical fields. Thank you and God Bless.......m
The disease overshadows almost everything in our lives. We live it, breathe it, endure it. We still do special things, it has not taken over our lives, its just become a undeniable part of it.
Sometimes when I am having a lively conversation,I forget a word or phrase.
A void(blank space) appears in my brain. I stop talking, trying to remember what I was going to say, or sometimes I just laugh and say, "what u ma call it" and continue talking. Its quite frustrating!
The inside of my body feels like its going faster. Some times I race around the house doing this and that. I have trouble slowing down. Other times I'm the same ole me!
Mood swings are part of this.
I can be happy, all of a sudden something happens and I become upset,snappy and raise my voice. I repeat the same thing over and over. My husband says I sound like a broken record. Its hard to stop whats happening. We have developed a system for him to help me stop. So far its working.
I don't sleep as long as I used to, and I am forgetting how to spell some words. I have to make sure I put items in a certain place to find them.
I enjoy writing, but sometimes I have to force my self to do it.
Maintaining a postiive attitude is hard ,but I know its best for state of mind and well being.
Almost everthing I read on the internet states this is a fatal
disease. I know this, yet I hold on to the hope that with in a few years
there will be a major breakthrough, and perhaps it will not be too late for me or others.
Medications are available to slow it down , but not stop or cure it.
There are some new clinical trails with new medications which break down
amaloids in the brain.
They have not been released by the FDA yet.There is an informative article in June AARP bulletin which tells of new break throughs. You can see this information on line if interested. I will write about some of it at a later time.
Many have illnesses which they face on a daily basis. Each copes differently but we all have the common goal of trying to live and do the best we can with what God has given us.
I ask for your prayers for the multitudes who are suffering from various illnesses, and urge you to write to your state rep. or congressman to approve more monies for research in different medical fields. Thank you and God Bless.......m
Monday, February 25, 2008
Alzheimer's, A Disease of the Mind Part two 6/9/2007
What its like to have Alzheimers and live with it. |
| My memory problems have persisted. Sometimes I forget where I am going when driving. Names, places,and words are not always in my mind. My short term memory is less. Sometimes I tell my husband or family members the same thing three or four times. They'll say "you already told us" and I say" well now you know again". When I first started becoming repetative, I became quite frustrated. I'd cry as feelings of being inadaquite trancended. |
| |
The Signs and Symptoms of Sleep Apnea/Alzheimer's Part One 6/8/2007
| These are some of the symptoms I have expierenced in the past few years. |
| About two years ago, I began having problems with my memory. I'd misplace my pocket book, keyes,important papers, forget names. I felt tired and listless after a long nights sleep. I took frequent naps during the day, and still felt tired. |
| |
A Killer Disease 6/6/2007
An Open Letter To All My Friends On A.D. |
| I was recentely diagnoised with |
| |
MaryGrace
MaryGrace has Alzheimer's disease and because she is a writer, a nurse, a mother, a wife
and generous she would like to share her experience with others.
This blog is not about how MaryGrace appears to others, it is how Mary Grace
appears to herself.
hank330 is merely the scribe doing the blogging.
We hope you will read along with us,
s/ MaryGrace
and generous she would like to share her experience with others.
This blog is not about how MaryGrace appears to others, it is how Mary Grace
appears to herself.
hank330 is merely the scribe doing the blogging.
We hope you will read along with us,
s/ MaryGrace
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