Some guys want to be cowboys. This guy was a cowboy. A real-life, cattle-raising, horse-riding, lover-of-the-land kind of cowboy. He dressed like a cowboy, and it was clear he had worked hard all of his life. But it took just a few moments to witness the twinkle in his eye, the good humor, and the happy man that added a…
A Tribute To A Mom Whom Her Daughters Adored In this story of tribute, the story highlights the efforts of two girls, the daughters of a beloved mother who was experiencing Lewy body disease and all that this reality brought. You see, her two daughters devoted the last several years to caring for their mom. First, living in the home…
The last time I spent time with her, we read her devotions, just like we always did. We enjoyed the flower catalog and one of her scrapbooks, just like usual. We pulled up the hymn "Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing" and read the lyrics while we sang along. It was getting harder for her to walk. It was harder…
The world thinks so much of what people experiencing dementia can't do. But in my world, we focus on what they CAN do! They often just need a companion who understands how to leverage the skills they keep to continue to meet their emotional needs. Our companions are living wonderful lives because of the skills we've learned through the DAWN…
This time of year, many families ask me if they should decorate their loved one’s home if they are experiencing dementia. My advice is it’s best to follow their lead. Check out the video for more! https://www.instagram.com/p/DR7qUSEgn4L/
Loss isn't the whole story. Sometimes we can get stuck focusing on the loss in Dementia (the loss of cognitive function), but there are so many strengths we should notice too! The DAWN Method taught me how to switch that perspective to lean into the strengths of our friends experiencing Dementia. https://www.instagram.com/p/DRSaHFlCa8S/
We called him Mr. Charming. Even in his last days, he would have moments where he would stop and compliment someone on their pretty sweater or nice shirt, with his sideways smile and attentive eyes. He loved to share stories about his days as a Colorado A&M University football player and his time with the National Forest Service. He was…
I knew that when I entered my friend’s door, I would need to sit, face her so that when she looked my way, our eyes would meet, and patiently and attentively listen. I knew that my response would have to feel to her as if I agreed with her negative comments about her son. She needed validation, empathy, and for…
His was a true Horatio Alger story. From the wilds of Wyoming as a child and youth, to the opportunities available in Northern Colorado, he embraced hard work and built something impressive. And yet, he was humble and kind. He became a leader and a man of service, donating time and resources to community causes he believed in. When we…
She grew up in Philadelphia, the daughter of an Italian father and Irish mother. A capable, independent, and talented young woman. His United States Navy ship came into port in Philadelphia, and a friend introduced them. It wasn’t long before he asked her to write letters to him after his ship left port. They were later married and enjoyed decades…
