Nevermore: Alicia’s Story
“The toughest part is having to let go” - Judy, daughter & care partner
Hi “Jane,”
Meet Alicia. Alicia was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease 10 years ago. In this beautiful 4-part series, we visit Alicia and her family in their home to get a birds-eye view of the grace, dignity, compassion, and support each of them shares with Alicia and one another.
Alicia’s relationship with her daughter, son-in-law and grandchildren drive the film as they confront the disease head-on and share their story and their struggle. Alicia’s challenges and efforts are palpable, as is her family’s devotion to her. This is a disease that affects everyone in the family and its toll is demonstrable and real. Yet through the loss and heartbreak, we see moments of laughter, lucidity, love and connection.
“How do we help Mom, let alone help ourselves?”
This is an irreversible and progressive brain disorder that slowly destroys memory, thinking skills and eventually, the ability to carry out the simplest tasks. The number of people who have survived Alzheimer’s disease is 0.
When we asked why Alicia’s family chose to share their story, her daughter Judy told us that she gained insight and emotional strength in sharing her story with other people who are going through the same experience. Her hope is that in helping even one person, Alicia’s memory and connection will live on. Here is her best advice:
“For families that are just learning that their loved one has been diagnosed with dementia or Alzheimer's, the best advice that I can give based on the experience that we've had is to get support. Don't try to deal with it yourself because it's going to be unlike anything you've ever experienced.”
Help our community feel connected and supported.
Alzheimer’s can affect anyone. Every three seconds, someone in the world is currently diagnosed with the disease. Building connections that matter is at the heart and soul of what we do at the Alzheimer Societies across Ontario. From supporting research and education, to building social recreation programs and offering ongoing support and counselling, we build connections.
Without your generous support, the crucial connections we provide would not be possible.
Let’s ensure that families like Alicia’s continue to get the support they need. With your generosity and assistance, together we will do just that.
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The Alzheimer Society Lanark Leeds Grenville is always here for you. If you need any support, more information about our programs and services, or need help navigating through the dementia journey, please contact us here.
We would love to hear from you. Share your thoughts on this short film and share your personal story here.
On the Horizon
Next week, watch for part two, W is for Whale: Alicia’s Story.
Thank you,
Melinda Coleman
Executive Director,
Alzheimer Society Lanark Leeds Grenville
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