I know Alzheimer’s is progressive and the condition deteriorates over time, but I’m keen to be around as long as possible for my grandchildren. One of my two sons tragically passed away and his children have shown real strength in dealing with that. I’m doing my best to be there for them, we speak regularly and on the anniversary of his passing, we always meet up for a meal and a long talk.
It’s been pretty incredible feeling the improvement over the last two years. I feel like I’ve been given my life back. It’s a little scary when you get to 81, but I don’t feel it, I don’t think I look it, and I certainly don’t act like it. On my 80th birthday last year, I threw a big party with 60 people, and I really pushed the boat out. I even got up and gave them all a rendition of Sinatra’s My Way.
Another major thing that I’ve been able to achieve since I’ve been on this drug is finding out so much more about my family.
For most of my adult life, I knew that my mother had married and divorced before I was born. I knew she’d had a fling with another man, my father, but to her dying day, she would never talk about it or tell me who he was, and he never tried to make contact with me.
I’d long resigned myself that I would never find out the truth. But recently, with the help of a DNA testing service, I’ve been able to track him down – sort of. Sadly, he’s long dead so I won’t be getting to talk to him anytime soon. But I have some photographs of him, and I’ve discovered that I have several half-siblings which was quite a shock! I’ve suddenly gained about 20 new family members who I never even knew existed, and I’ll soon be making a trip up north to meet them which is incredibly exciting. It makes such a difference knowing I have a whole new family to get to know and none of this would have been possible if my brain health had continued deteriorating.
I’m so much more optimistic about my future now. I don’t hide the fact that I have Alzheimer’s. In fact I’m quite open with anybody that I have it. If I’m having a conversation and I forget words or names, I tell people why. Having Alzheimers is nothing to be ashamed of. I’m now looking forward to my 85th and planning another party for that, perhaps with the new family I never knew I had. Why not?
As told to David Cox
Sarah Carter is a health and wellness expert residing in the UK. With a background in healthcare, she offers evidence-based advice on fitness, nutrition, and mental well-being, promoting healthier living for readers.
