Dear Aitan,

My heart is full of sadness for your family. I have walked where you are now and wish there was anything I could do to relieve some of your pain and heartache. Unfortunately, this final part of the journey comes to us all, and the best we can do is endure it with the same love and respect we have had all along for our afflicted LO's. Continue to support your dear grandfather -- this is so very hard for him to watch his lifemate become so lost and confused. Just as it is so hard for you to see your beloved grandmother fearful of those who have loved her so much and so long.

I kept pictures of the family around all the time for my mom to see and she loved telling the hospice workers all about the people in her life. She knew who they were but I'm not in any way certain she knew she was related to them. For us, it didn't matter, as she was always happy to see us, regardless of who she thought we were.

Please, do not think that sharing your understandably sad feelings here brings about a "dark cloud." We all walk the same journey and we know how much each of us needs to express some of our deeper, darker thoughts and feelings. We understand, and will always support you with an ear ready to listen, and arms to enfold you in the gentlest of hugs anytime you need them. Stay well, and keep us updated whenever you have a chance.

You are not bringing a "dark cloud" to this forum. We appreciate you and the fact that this forum is here at all. Here, we can talk comfortably and honestly about the disease and its toll on our LOs and ourselves. I thank you for that. I am keeping your grandmother in my thoughts also (and you, of course).