After 40 years of marriage, Barbara Whitman’s husband, Jerry, was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. She decided to keep a journal throughout her time caring for him.
By keeping a journal, Whitman was able to turn her story into a book. Her book, “In My Shoes” has become a tool to help other caregivers.
“I didn’t know anything about it at the time, but I started writing down some of the little things that were happening. It’s a progressive disease. It’s a degenerating disease. It’s a disease that literally destroys a persons brain,” said Barbara Whitman.
Jerry Whitman passed away last year, but today, Barbara is helping others deal with the hardships that come with the diagnosis.
“They’re going to experience anger that they’ve never felt before, frustration, and just unhappiness at times, and it’s okay,” said Whitman.
Having a loved one dealing with Alzheimer’s is hard for the caregiver and entire family.
Whitman said, “Some days are just really super days and they’re fun and they’re funny. Other days are just so rough, and you’re not prepared for that.”
“We were married for 52 years, and it was very very hard to see this person that I knew so well become a different person, and so I wanted to let people know that they are going to experience these things,” said Whitman.
Common warning signs of dementia are memory loss, difficulty performing familiar tasks, and problems holding a conversation. Whitman says it is important to pay attention to warning signs and get diagnosed as soon as possible.
“In My Shoes” can be found online at www.amazon.com, www.barnesandnoble.com, and www.liferichpublishing.com.
For more information about Alzheimer’s, click here.
