June 05, 2008 Piqua, OH

Cate,
Only someone who has experienced Alzheimer's can understand what its like being a caregiver
and I know also, God will see us through. I guess my concern, is that I am able to care for Bill! I
don't have anyone to help, he really doesn't want someone to stay, he says he doesn't need a
babysitter. The computer helps for a little break, while he is napping.

I am so glad you are going on the trip and that your sister can accompany you! It should be good
for all of you! I received your e-mail when her husband died and did send her a card, I know she went through quite an experience, also.

I will pray for your safety constantly while you are gone! Have a trip with many good memories. They
can be so wonderful to recall!

With much Love and gratitude that God brought you into Dale's life and mine!!
Marilyn

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Sent: Sunday, June 01, 2008 10:28 PM
Subject: Cate
Dear Marilyn, Our lives are so similiar. Mom gets worse remembering and walking is getting bad. I am afraid to leave her alone in the car. So I depend on Jaime to get groceries and what not. Sometimes I think there is no "out there", but I remember that God called me to this and He will get me through this. The only church people I see is De Stanley on tv and Dale's mormon church are still trying to recruit me. I do enjoy studying with them and learning what Dale believed but in my heart I belong to Jesus and I don't really care who holds the earthly keys and what not, that stuff is just confusing and Jesus here on earth was not confusing. Following Him and loving others to me is the most important.

Mother has been in a more pleasant dispostion than when this first started. It's hard to believe it's been 16 months since I have been home with her. Kasey has gone through the 1st year of Kindergarten. School will be out this Wednesday.

I am taking Mom home to Tennessee next Sunday. We are going to be gone 12 days. My sister is able to go this year too. Did I tell you her husband died in April? He was 56. The stress of everything has me exhausted as not only her grief but I relived with her all the ways I felt when Dale died.
Mom sister is going to be 90 and has the alzheimers too. I am hoping she will recognize Mom. It would be nice if we could set up a place in the nursing home to have cake and ice cream with her. I don't like this growing older business, nope I sure don't.

I hope your asthma is getting better. So very difficult for you to do all you have to do and not be able to breathe well. Do you have anyone who comes in to help you care for Bill?

Marilyn I keep you both in prayer. You are very dear and precious to me and I wish I could give you a huge hug. Remember to take some time for yourself. I know it is hard to do. When Mom naps I try and take one too and I don't worry about the house so much.

I'm off to bed, hope you have a good nights rest and peace on your pillow. Much love, xxooo. Cate