Dementia is a demon and a thief. It steals the familiar from the one it inhabits, wreaking havoc on their lives as well as the lives of those who love them. Although there is no way to arrest the unwelcome guest, there are methods for learning to cope with him. There are things that can be done to prepare for the journey which lies ahead. There are ways to create joy-filled moments in order to have joyful memories.
I Love You Always is the story of Lottie Berry, a self-proclaimed badass whose dementia diagnosis thrusts her family into a tumultuous journey. Refusal to accept the early “signs” resulted in major decisions having to be made in a minimal amount of time. In spite of this, her children manage to place Lottie’s best interests ahead of their own as they join forces to help her achieve her goal of living until ninety while remaining in her own home.
I Love You Always shares a whirlwind of real-life situations that will have you laughing hysterically at Lottie’s antics one minute and sobbing the next. It is an emotional rollercoaster that shares the good, bad, and ugly of dementia while providing valuable caregiver tips in the form of “lessons” throughout. In addition, the author shares scripture that helped sustain her during the course of this harrowing journey.
This book was written with all caregivers in mind, not just for those caring with loved ones dealing with dementia. La Bena is of the belief that we learn from our experiences and have a responsibility to share our insights with others who may benefit.
I Love You Always was awarded the 2021 Today’s Caregiver Friendly Award, which “recognizes outstanding books, media, products, and services, which have been designed with the best interest of the caregiver and their loved one in mind.”Regardless of whom you are caring for, or the illness they are suffering from, this book is a valuable resource that won’t disappoint.
