Don’t Forget to Dance is a memoir of Marc and his wife Mary’s journey through early-onset Alzheimer’s disease. The story portrays many unforeseen and bizarre complications—including multiple identities—and how they handled them in unique ways. There were periods filled with lots of distress and near disasters that turned the couple’s lives upside down. But it’s also an encouraging love story that will inspire readers on any life journey—showing how a supportive and even happy relationship can be fostered through such dire circumstances, and how Mary prepared her heart, mind and spirit for years before her diagnosis, providing an unexplainable inner peace during later years._____KIRKUS Reviews:“A husband strives to make the right care choices after his wife is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease…The subject matter of this work is unavoidably distressing, but Alderdice maintains a positive tone throughout, embracing the seize-the-day sentiment suggested in the book’s title: “Make the most of everything you love—the ‘dancing’ in your life…””The author has a levelheaded writing style, describing his physical and emotional states clearly. Caretakers will relate to Alderdice’s spectrum of emotions…a well-written, uplifting memoir.””A tenderly observant account that champions the power of love in the face of adversity.”_____Readers’ Favorite: (5-Star Rating)”Don’t Forget to Dance…follows the story of Mary and her husband Marc as they face the challenges of early-onset Alzheimer’s disease…the progression of the illness led to psychiatric manifestations and a decline in communication skills. As they confront the realities of the disease, they navigate anticipated and unexpected complications, finding ways to cope and remain resilient. Mary’s journey involves moments of distress and the need to make difficult decisions, ultimately leading to a choice of specialized memory care. Throughout the ups and downs, their strength in the bonds of love and support for each other shines.””…his wife’s journey with Dissociative Identity Disorder amidst the challenges of Alzheimer’s…descriptions of his wife’s embodiment of alternative personalities were insightful and…relatable. The young adult identity, where Mary was pleased with her appearance and had conversations with an imaginary friend in the mirror, presented a dichotomy in the sorrow of Mary having the disorder and it being somewhat uplifting in how it made her feel: beautiful.””This profoundly honest book will surely resonate with those facing similar situations, providing support and understanding. Moreover, it offers valuable insights for clinicians and students navigating the complexities of dementia in a more personal and empathetic light.””Very highly recommended.”
