Last
week author, Anthony Bidulka, shared on Facebook an article Louise wrote for
the AARP. It can be found at http://www.aarp.org/home-family/caregiving/info-2016/mystery-writer-louise-penny-personal-essay.html
Focused
on caregiving the article discusses how Louise and others cared for Michael.
I
was reminded of a day at our Rotary Club in Melfort when a member told us about
the journey of himself and his wife in dealing with her early onset dementia in
another community. As her health declined he advised his club in that city that
he would have to give up his membership as he could not leave her alone to come
to meetings. With a catch to his voice he said the wives of his fellow members
(at that time Rotary was mainly male) organized themselves to be with his wife
for each meeting so he could have abit of time with his friends.
Louise's article is titled “The Last Promise”. She promised herself that she would be
with Michael when he died holding his hand.
It
is a heart wrenching story. I admire Louise for writing about their challenges
and for her commitment to Michael.
After
the article there was a note that Michael had died on September 18 and that
Louise had been able to fulfill her last promise.
Peace
be with you Louise and Michael.
What a heart-rending, and yet uplifting story, Bill. I knew that Louise Penny's husband had died of complications from dementia, but didn't know about that promise. I so admire her commitment to him. I, too, wish them peace and healing.
ReplyDeleteMargot: Thanks for the comment. Louise reminds us how good we can be to those we love.
DeleteThank you for sharing that, Bill. I had no idea what she had been going through. It is a heart-breaking and yet such a beautiful, loving story.
ReplyDeleteMarina: Thanks for the comment. Her story is a powerful affirmation of love.
DeleteThanks for sharing an awesome read; I'll be sure to pick up one of her books once I've completed the ones you've already lent me.
ReplyDeleteBrandi: Thanks for the comment. I suggest starting with the first in the Gamache series.
DeleteTouching and human stories Bill - thanks.
ReplyDeleteMoira: Thanks for the comment. I see Louise and Michael as inspirations to all of us.
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